Ever sat and watched a resident take their first steps again? Walking after a stroke is more than rehab; it’s restoration, hope, and heart. With over 12 million new stroke cases worldwide each year, stroke remains one of the top causes of global disability. Yet when you talk to residents, their loved ones, and the professionals supporting them, independence in walking nearly always tops the list of what matters most.

Clinical guidelines already support walking after a stroke, but change on the ground has been slow. Many rehabilitation communities still show low levels of walking activity. That’s why the “Walk ‘n Watch” progressive exercise protocol is gaining attention. A recent study published by the National Institutes of Health explored its potential, and the results were compelling: participants with subacute stroke saw meaningful gains in walking endurance.

So, what does this protocol involve? It begins with a baseline 6-Minute Walk Test. Then, step goals are increased over a four-week period, with specific interventions tailored by the treating therapist based on the resident’s individual needs. The structure offers guidance, while the flexibility ensures personalized care.

As reported in Medscape’s review of the structured program, walking programs like this one go beyond endurance. Benefits include stronger cognition, better balance, faster gait speed, and enhanced overall quality of life.

And those benefits are worth a conversation. Is your therapy staff current with the “Walk ‘n Watch” approach? Are you prioritizing walking in your stroke recovery care plans? This may be a good time to open that dialogue and revisit priorities with your staff. As outlined in The Lancet Neurology, early, structured walking efforts can shift outcomes and uplift daily life for those recovering.

What a gift to help someone find their feet again, both physically and emotionally.

Stay well and stay informed!