Photo credit: Thatairegirl
The following is a summary of “identification of the mediators of a healthy lifestyle adoption after a stroke: a study of a discussion group using a framework of theoretical fields guided”, published in the April 2025 issue of BMC neurology by hall et al.
Lifestyle changes alongside drugs help prevent recurrence of strokes. Motivation depends on social and cultural factors.
Researchers conducted a retrospective study on the experiences of a stroke in the management of lifestyle risks thanks to cognitive, emotional, social and environmental factors. Party participation of patients and public (PPI) has improved the quality of research and transparency.
They led eight discussion groups (n = 35 stroke participants, n = 3 caregivers) using semi-structured questions co-developed with a PPI panel. The sampling to design ensured the representation by location and disability. The data were inductive and mapped as the framework of the theoretical areas deduction to identify behavioral change constructions.
The results have shown that participants have largely described the risk reduction changes by themselves. Their experiences have mapped 10 of 14 TDF areas, with knowledge and social influences as mediators of key behavior change. The objectives have rarely been discussed, indicating an underused. Reinstallation and behavioral regulation constructions, such as reminders and rules, have been valued. Psychosocial challenges, emotional responses and cognitive difficulties have mapped memory, attention and decision -making processes and the fields of emotions. Health beliefs, self -identity and the capacity perceived to change are mapped on social / professional role and identity, beliefs on consequences and beliefs on capacities. “Know how” for behavior change was largely lacking, with intentions, skills, an environmental context and resources, and optimism in particular absent from discussions.
Investigators found the TDF useful to link the prevention of stroke survivors with behavioral change constructions. The results had theory implications to guide future interventions in risk reduction.
Source: bmcneurol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/S12883-025-04144-1