Exploring peer support programs for stroke and cardiac recovery

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Beyond its physical impact, stroke significantly affects psychosocial well-being, often leading to social isolation and reduced quality of life. Social support—through family, friends, and peer connections—plays a vital role in recovery. However, there is a critical lack of high-quality evidence for effective, integrative peer support programs. While educational peer support groups show promise in aiding post-stroke recovery, rigorous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed to evaluate their long-term impact. Our previous feasibility RCT developed a 12-week, semi-structured peer support program co-designed with stroke survivors, caregivers, and clinicians. The program, designed as an active control for a mindfulness trial, consisted of weekly in-person sessions covering topics such as cooking and finances, followed by facilitated discussions and social interactions. Retention exceeded 95%, and participants reported benefits in knowledge-sharing, social connection, and engagement. However, accessibility barriers—especially for rural and mobility-limited survivors—highlight the need to explore virtual delivery. To address this critical gap, this project will pioneer an innovative, multi-modal peer support intervention (PEERS program) delivered in both virtual and face-to-face formats. Using a co-design approach, we will refine and enhance the existing program in collaboration with stroke survivors, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. This study will assess feasibility, acceptability, and practicality across different delivery modes while evaluating preliminary effects on unmet needs, mental health, and social support beyond six months post-stroke. Project Phases: The student will be part of the Translational Public Health and Evaluation Division within the Stroke and Ageing Research (STAR) group at Monash University, contributing to the following: Phase 1: Conduct a systematic review Evaluate existing peer support interventions for post-stroke recovery, focusing on feasibility, psychosocial outcomes, and delivery models. Phase 2: Engage stakeholders in an interactive co-design process Collaborate with stroke survivors, caregivers, clinicians, and researchers to refine the 12-week PEERS program, ensuring relevance and accessibility for diverse populations. Phase 3: Pilot-test the intervention Conduct a feasibility RCT with 30 stroke survivors randomized to virtual or face-to-face peer support groups. Assess feasibility metrics (participation rates, satisfaction, dropout rates) and process evaluation outcomes (barriers, facilitators, cost tracking). Explore preliminary effectiveness on unmet needs, anxiety, depression, fatigue, quality of life, and social isolation. This project presents an exciting opportunity for students interested in stroke rehabilitation, digital health, patient-centred research, and community-based interventions. By advancing evidence-based peer support strategies, this research will inform the design of a larger Phase III trial and contribute to improving long-term stroke recovery and social well-being.