Grant: CIHR Fellowship

Significant proportions of stroke survivors suffer long-term physical disability and are predisposed to sedentary lifestyles. This limits their performance of activities necessary for independent living in the community and contributes to increased risk for recurrent stroke and heart disease. Intervention strategies are needed to motivate stroke survivors to engage in routine physical activity and to optimize their physical and motor functions. One promising strategy targets executive functions (EFs) by engaging stroke survivors in complex mental and social activities. Broadly speaking, EFs refer to the cognitive processes that allow for adaptive behavior and self-control. The current study will evaluate the importance of improving EFs within the context of a mental and social enrichment intervention in order to have a meaningful impact on physical and motor functions, the ability to perform daily activities, and routine engagement in physical activity. The information garnered from this study will be crucial for improving stroke rehabilitation for older Canadians who suffer chronic disability from stroke.