Thirteenth International Conference on Health, Wellness & Society

Abstract

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, health and social service organizations have rapidly modified and adapted stroke support services to provide virtual delivery options. Virtual programming removed barriers for many people with disabilities allowing for timely, convenient, and efficient access to programming. However, there is a gap in the literature surrounding evaluations of virtually delivered community-based programs. March of Dimes Canada (MODC) is a national non-profit providing services to people with disabilities and their caregivers, including people who have experienced a stroke. In partnership with Heart and Stroke Foundation Canada, MODC launched the virtual Living with Stroke™ program in the spring of 2022 and developed a two-year evaluation to measure program effectiveness and feasibility, and to address the knowledge gap. After completing the Year 1 process evaluation, the evaluation is finding that the virtual Living with Stroke™ program is connecting people with stroke across Canada, increasing psychosocial well-being through common understanding, feelings and experiences, and knowledge of stroke and its lasting effects. This paper highlights the impact of social connection and well-being on physical health outcomes measured through the first year of MODC’s evaluation.