The experiences and perceptions of stroke survivors engaging in a virtual choir during COVID-19: a thematic analysis

Background: Stroke is a public health concern, and the emergence of the COVID-19 virus has made the continuation of social support/rehabilitation groups for stroke survivors difficult. Many stroke survivors have been required to self-isolate for 12 weeks or more, according to government rules and regulations. This has led to the use of innovative technological platforms (eg Zoom) for delivering rehabilitation activities through ‘life after stroke’ group sessions, such as choir practice for stroke survivors. Aims: The purpose of this study was to explore stroke survivors' experiences and perceptions of engaging, or choosing not to engage, in a virtual choir (VC) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Eight participants were recruited from the Stroke Association Strike a Chord VC. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and the verbatim transcriptions were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings: Three main themes were identified: experience of singing in a choir; VCs and me; and yearning to sing face-to-face, with respective subthemes. The experience and perceptions presented here are intertwined. While most stroke survivors perceived the VC as a positive platform for providing a sense of belonging (community), there was a sense of yearning for face-to-face singing. Conclusions: This research may offer some support for those facilitating social and meaningful virtual group activities to groups in communities that may struggle with communication and digital literacy.