Factors Related to Performance-Based Mobility and Self-reported Physical Activity in Individuals 1-3 Years after Stroke: A Cross-sectional Cohort Study

Background: Low mobility and low level of physical activity is common after stroke. The objective of this study was to relate these outcomes to physical, psychological, and demographic determinants. Methods: In this cross-sectional cohort study, a consecutive sample of 195 community-living individuals, 65-85 years of age (74 +/- 5 years, 71% men) with a previous stroke was included. Exclusion criteria were severe aphasia and severe cognitive dysfunction. Mobility status was measured by the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB, 0-12 points), and physical activity was measured using the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE). Results: Mobility (SPPB, median 9 points) and level of physical activity were low (mean PASE 97 +/- 66 points), and walking speed was slow (1.10 +/- .86 m/s), in relation to a healthy population-based sample. In multiple regression analyses, age (P = .001), physical activity (P < .001), fall-related self-efficacy (P = .001), and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) (P = .02) were associated with mobility (SPPB). Mobility (P < .001), HRQoL (P = .014), and fall-related self-efficacy (P = .031) were likewise associated with self-reported physical activity as the dependent variable. The regression models described 42% and 31% of the variance in mobility and physical activity, respectively. Conclusions: Individuals perceived disabilities that are partly potentially modifiable 1-3 years after stroke. Future poststroke rehabilitation studies need to evaluate if actions to improve fall-related self-efficacy and mobility could promote the physical activity level in this patient population.