Patient-Perceived Factors Influencing Physical Activity Sensor Use in Stroke Prevention and Rehabilitation: Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies Using Thematic Synthesis

TL;DR

This study reviews qualitative research to understand what influences older adults' use of physical activity sensors for stroke prevention and rehabilitation.

Contribution

The study provides a thematic synthesis of patient-perceived factors affecting the use of physical activity sensors in stroke risk management.

Findings

Technological and psychological barriers were identified as key challenges in sensor use.

Psychological and social facilitators were found to enhance sensor adoption and sustained use.

Effective user engagement is closely linked to optimal device characteristics.

Abstract

A robust correlation exists between physical activity (PA) and stroke risk reduction, and wearable PA sensors have emerged as promising adjuncts for rehabilitation and risk self-management. However, evidence regarding their long-term efficacy in facilitating sustained behavioral change remains equivocal.

This study aimed to explore the barriers and facilitators influencing the effective use of PA sensors in older adults at risk of primary or recurrent stroke.

A systematic search and thematic synthesis of qualitative research was conducted, focusing on PA sensor use among older adults at risk of primary or recurrent stroke. Given the emerging qualitative evidence base, inclusion was extended to proxy populations with analogous cardiovascular risk and functional profiles. Data were analyzed using line-by-line coding of primary text to generate descriptive themes and synthesize overarching analytical constructs.

A search of 6 bibliographic databases (January 2010 to December 2023) identified 18 eligible studies. This systematic review and thematic synthesis revealed predominantly technological (user experience and device attributes) and psychological (motivation) barriers. Key facilitators were psychological (feedback and motivation), technological (user experience), and social/environmental supports. Higher-level analysis revealed a critical interrelationship between effective user engagement and optimally assistive device characteristics.

This review revealed a synergistic user-device interaction driving sustained PA in older adults at risk of primary or recurrent stroke. Future interventions developed in collaboration with patients and informed by the factors identified by this study will improve participation in rehabilitation and functional outcomes in this population.

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