Alberta Program Uses Smartwatch Tracking to Boost Mobility in Stroke Survivors

A pilot study published in the *Archives of Rehabilitation Research and Clinical Translation* shows that a new program developed by researchers at the University of Alberta can help stroke survivors increase movement and reduce sedentary time after leaving the hospital. The intervention, called BIG STEPS, was tested with patients who had recently been discharged following a stroke and was found to be both safe and practical for use in the home setting.

BIG STEPS is a “whole‑of‑the‑day” approach that encourages patients to sit less and move more throughout their daily routine. Lead author Dr. Victor Ezeugwu of the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine notes that this strategy is crucial for long‑term health and wellness, as extended periods of inactivity can hinder recovery and increase the risk of complications. The study’s findings suggest that the program could be integrated into post‑discharge care plans to support sustained mobility and functional improvement.

The promising results from this small‑scale study point to a potential new standard for stroke rehabilitation at home. Further research will determine how widely the BIG STEPS program can be adopted and its long‑term impact on stroke survivors’ quality of life.