Feasibility and Acceptability of a Remote, Asynchronous, Stroke-Tailored Mindfulness Intervention for Stroke Survivors and Support Persons.

BACKGROUND

Stress impacts the quality of life for stroke survivors (SS) and support persons (SPs) during recovery, negatively affecting both individuals in the stroke dyad (SD). While mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) can improve well-being, their complexity and time demands are significant barriers for implementation in the stroke community. Tailoring MBI to the needs of SS and SP (modified-MBI) shows promise in improving stress and quality of life for both members of the SD throughout long-term recovery.

METHODS

The A Mindful Approach to Managing Stress (A-MAMS) intervention enrolled 58 participants to assess the feasibility and acceptability of an 8-week virtual asynchronous m-MBI. Enrollment, retention, lesson, and homework completion rates were measured. End-of-study feedback survey (EOS) data was also collected.

RESULTS

The A-MAMS intervention demonstrated high feasibility (enrollment rate=96.7%; attendance rate=98.3%) and acceptability (lesson and homework completion rates=97.8% and 98.8%, retention rate=89.7%). A total of 52 participants (30 SS and 22 SP; 15 SD members) completed all course components and EOS. The EOS feedback indicated 96.2% found the intervention helpful for stress management and would recommend it. No significant dyadic effect was identified.

CONCLUSION

This remotely delivered m-MBI was feasible and acceptable for adult SS and SP. These findings support the utility of tailored, accessible mindfulness interventions for the SD, laying a foundation for future research on their implementation and impact.