Supportive Strides: Co-designing Community-Based Walking Programs with Embedded Socialisation and Peer Support for People after Stroke

The study focused on co-designing a community-based walking program for people after stroke to improve physical activity through social connection. The research involved four phases with a total of 26 participants including 12 stroke survivors, 2 carers, and 12 health and design professionals. In the second phase, key program principles were identified: social support, inclusive environment, motivational support, coordination, and administrative support. The resulting Supportive Strides program includes accessible outdoor walking routes, pre-walk social gatherings, peer support, online group chat, milestone celebrations, and a safety checklist. Following participant feedback, adaptations were made including a simplified screening process and expanded route information. The program is ready for testing to improve physical activity and social connection after stroke.