Stroke survivors were more likely to remain physically active or even exercise more after their stroke if they lived in neighborhoods with easy access to recreational centers and gyms, according to a preliminary study presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference 2024.

“Our findings suggest that it’s important to have a conversation with stroke patients about physical activity resources available in their area so they are able to continue their recovery after hospital discharge,” said lead study author Jeffrey Wing, PhD, MPH, of The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. “If their neighborhood does not offer fitness resources, neurologists should consider discharging the patient to a rehabilitation facility where they can participate in physical activities.”

For the study, researchers examined the potential link between available fitness/exercise centers, pools and gyms and physical activity among 333 people living in New York City who had sustained a mild stroke. They then examined the association between the number of fitness and recreational centers, such as pools, gyms and skating rinks, per square mile, and the self-reported change in physical activity levels — more active, about the same or less active — one year after stroke.

The analysis found:

• About 17% of participants reported being more physically active one year after stroke, and 48% reported having about the same level of physical activity as before the stroke.
• After controlling for age, gender, race, ethnicity, education, health insurance and body mass index, the odds of being more active were 57% higher among participants who lived in areas with more recreational and fitness resources (about 58 fitness resources) compared to people living in neighborhoods with fewer or no fitness resources.
• Similarly, the odds of reporting the same level of physical activity one year after stroke were 47% higher in participants who lived in areas with more recreational centers and fitness resources compared to those who lived in areas with fewer or no resources available.

Previous research has found that the characteristics of the built environment of a neighborhood, such as access to healthy food or recreational spaces promoting physical activity, were also linked to a lower incidence of stroke, Wing noted.

To read the abstract presented at the American Stroke Association International Stroke Conference 2024, click here