Step by step
“Step by Step” is an adapted indoor mall walking program that takes place at City Square Mall in Vancouver every Thursday from 8:30-9:30am. It is designed for individuals who have experienced a brain injury or stroke. Most participants require a gait aid or are slow walkers. It has been running successfully since 2007 and is led by a recreation therapist from GF Strong and supported by 2-3 Vancouver Coastal Health Volunteers.
Initial program development occurred as a result of questionnaires provided to community partners, and individuals and family members impacted by an acquired brain injury that identified the need for programming that would facilitate: opportunities to improve mobility, walking stamina and endurance, a better quality of life, opportunities to improve communication and meet others. Although walking programs exist in some communities, none of these programs provide the level of coordination, supervision and adaptation required to meet these individual needs.
Program evaluations were completed in January 2014 with the participants. Results demonstrated the following:
- Reduction in use of mobility aids
- 91% are walking outside of the program
- 91% are interested in learning about other programs
- Majority identified other positive lifestyle changes since participating in program i.e.: forms of exercise, walking more, eating a healthier diet
- All rated an increase in level of activity since beginning program
With these findings and looking back at the initial purpose of the program, there was a need to develop an adapted walking program for individuals to transition to following participation in the Step by Step Program. This led to “Next Steps” a new transitional mall walking pilot for individuals with acquired brain injuries out of Oakridge Mall. It occurs every Thursday from 8:00-9:00 a.m. The pilot is a partnership between GF Strong and the Stroke Recovery Association of British Columbia (SRABC). It began as of March 19th, 2015 and will run initially for a one year period. This program has a coordinator and volunteers under the supervision of SRABC. The hope is that the program success will lead to expanding this to other communities in the future.
“Step by Step” Walking Program is currently accepting new referrals. . If you have any questions about the program(s) please contact Janet Soucy, ABI Recreation Therapist @ GF Strong Rehab Centre @ 604-737-6413 or by email.