Barriers to physical activity of stroke survivors in Singapore: A face-to-face cross-sectional survey

Background Physical activity (PA) levels of stroke survivors are far from recommended levels. To develop specific interventions targeted at improving PA after stroke, there is a need to consider the barriers to PA faced by stroke survivors. Objective To use the comprehensive Barriers to Physical Activity Questionnaire for People with Mobility Impairments (BPAQ-MI) to identify intrapersonal, interpersonal, organizational and community barriers to PA faced by stroke survivors in Singapore. Methods We conducted a face-to-face survey with stroke survivors recruited from Singapore National Stroke Association platforms. Participants were eligible for the study if they were 21 years old and above, had a medical diagnosis of stroke, and had a weak arm or leg. Results 38 stroke survivors participated in the survey. More than half had moderate or moderately severe disability, and needed assistance for activities of daily living or walking. Of the 63 barriers spanning across intrapersonal, interpersonal, organizational and community domains, the top three most commonly reported barriers include lack of accessible classes/programs at fitness centre (21/38; 55%), lack of assistance from fitness centre staff (19/38; 50%) and feelings of tiredness/fatigue (18/38; 47%). Of the top 10 most commonly reported barriers, four were organizational barriers, four were intrapersonal barriers and two were community barriers. Conclusions Stroke survivors in Singapore want to participate in PA, but are often limited by barriers associated with fitness centres, self and the environment in the wider community.