Associations Between Physical Activity Intensities and Physical Function in Stroke Survivors

Abstract

These findings suggest that light activity as well as moderate to vigorous physical activity may contribute to better physical functioning in stroke survivors. Although moderate to vigorous physical activity significantly predicted the objective measure of physical function (Short Physical Performance Battery), light physical activity consistently predicted higher scores on all subscales of the Late-Life Function and Disability Instrument. Disabilities resulting from stroke may limit this population from engaging in moderate to vigorous physical activity, and these findings highlight the importance of light physical activity, which may offer similar perceived functional benefits. Future studies should focus on development of effective exercise interventions for stroke survivors by incorporating and comparing both moderate to vigorous physical activity and light-intensity physical activity.