Expanding delivery of an evidence-based weight-loss intervention to enhance access after stroke - The overarching goal of our program of research at Baylor Scott & White is to build an evidence-based approach to obesity treatment and prevention after stroke. Our proposed project extends our previous efforts establishing an in-person, evidence-based, CDC-recognized weight-loss intervention called the Group Lifestyle Balance for people post Stroke to further address obesity and health issues after stroke. Our goal is to improve the health and function of people who have experienced a stroke by broadening availability of the intervention to assess the efficacy of telehealth delivery. The objectives of this three-year project are to (1) conduct a randomized controlled trial to examine the efficacy of the evidence-based intervention delivered using telehealth, (2) examine participant compliance, and (3) assess intervention fidelity. We will partner with an Advisory Board including people who have experienced a stroke, clinicians, and community partners. 94 individuals post stroke who are overweight/obese will be recruited nationally with the support of our recruiting partners (Brain Injury Association of America; American Heart Association; Center on Knowledge Translation for Disability and Rehabilitation Research; National Rehabilitation Information Center). Outcomes include: (1) an evidence-based telehealth weight-loss intervention for people post stroke, (2) evidence of efficacy, compliance, and fidelity, and (3) an intervention that is scalable for use with a broader population. At the end of three years, expected products include (1) an evidence-based telehealth intervention to promote weight-loss post stroke that is free and publicly available, (2) a leadership guide to support community implementation, and (3) scientific papers and presentations of study results.
