Empowering stroke survivors in Alabama’s rural communities
While May marked Stroke Awareness Month, the need to support stroke survivors continues year-round—especially in rural communities where resources can be limited. In Alabama, a promising pilot program is showing how small steps, local partnerships, and virtual support can make a meaningful difference in recovery. Led by Mudasir Andrabi, Ph.D., at the University of Alabama’s Capstone College of Nursing, this initiative helps stroke survivors build confidence in managing their health and reengaging with life after a stroke.
Why healthy habits are hard to start
Many stroke survivors face challenges long after they leave the hospital. In rural Alabama, these challenges often include high blood pressure, mobility limitations, and limited access to follow-up care. Dr. Andrabi was motivated to create this program after noticing gaps in support for stroke survivors. Her background in population health and her work with communities around the world highlighted the need for approaches that are both accessible and rooted in local support.
How the program works
The Mobile Community Stroke Self-Management Program provides a 12-week structure of weekly group calls, personalized exercise planning, and weekly check-in calls to encourage self-monitoring. A nurse educator leads the calls, covering topics like blood pressure control, medication adherence, and safe physical activity.
Participants also set personal health goals and receive check-in calls every week to discuss any barriers they encounter. One participant shared, “I’ve become more intentional about my routines, getting up, exercising, planning meals, and even how I handle stress.”
Mudasir Andrabi, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, University of Alabama
“You don’t have to do everything perfectly—just taking the first step can lead to numerous positive changes.”
-Study participant
The program begins with a tech orientation to help participants become comfortable using their devices. “At first it was frustrating,” one participant said. “But the tech orientation walked me through the basics patiently. Now I feel more comfortable and even proud of being able to connect with the group on my own.”
Building a support network
Churches and community centers serve as trusted gathering spaces and outreach partners. “Their involvement helps foster trust and strengthen community engagement,” said Andrabi. Participants agree. “Knowing I’m not alone in this journey, hearing others share their stories—it builds a sense of community. We motivate each other, and that emotional support makes a big difference.”
In the participant’s words, the goal-setting and group accountability are what keep the program grounded. “Each week gives me small wins to celebrate.”
Real change starts with what’s doable
The program is still underway, but early experiences show promise. Participants are reporting more confidence, healthier routines, and improvements in areas like diet, physical activity, and blood pressure management. One participant’s goals included walking 20 minutes daily, reducing sodium, and fat intake. “I’ve been consistent,” they said. “I’ve tracked my progress and seen small improvements in stamina and blood pressure.”
More than anything, the program aims to build self-efficacy. “Empowering individuals is just as important as clinical progress,” Andrabi said.
Key Terms to Know
Stroke: A medical emergency caused by blocked or burst blood vessels in the brain.
Hypertension: Another word for high blood pressure. It increases stroke risk.
Telehealth: Healthcare support through phone, video or text instead of in-person visits.
Easy Health Tips for Stroke Survivors and Caregivers
- Reach out to local food banks or churches to see if they offer wellness check-ins or walking groups.
- If you or someone you know is recovering from a stroke, consider setting a small health goal this week, like reducing salt or moving a few extra minutes each day.
- Look for local tech literacy classes or call a community center for help accessing virtual health programs.
What’s next for the program
The current phase of the pilot wraps up in June. After that, Andrabi’s team will evaluate results and refine the program. “The goal is to expand and adapt it to serve more communities facing similar challenges,” she said. “We are continually seeking more funding for the sustainability and scalability of our stroke self-management program in the Deep South.”
This work reflects the importance of local partnerships and patient-centered design in rural health care. By pairing simple tools with compassionate outreach, the program is helping stroke survivors feel more confident, connected, and in control.
