Assessing Community Readiness to Use Social Platforms for Stroke Survivors' Recovery and Caregiver Support in Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

Background: Stroke survivors and their family caregivers face substantial burdens resulting from a complex interplay of clinical, functional, and psychosocial factors. Community-based resources and social networking are critical for alleviating caregiver burden and improving outcomes for both caregivers and stroke survivors. Objectives: To assess the Saudi population's readiness to use social platforms for stroke survivors' recovery and caregiver support. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed between March and June 2025 to collect data from community-dwelling individuals using sociodemographic and Technology Readiness Index (TRI) questionnaires. Results: A convenience sample of 576 participants was enrolled in this study. Overall, the participants showed a high level of technology readiness, with a total TRI mean score of M = 3.65, SD = 0.86. Optimism had the highest mean score, followed by innovativeness, insecurity, and discomfort. Significant differences in technology readiness were identified based on age, educational level, employment status, familiarity with modern technology, and healthcare provider status. Conclusions: This study demonstrates a high level of technological readiness across the Saudi population, indicating strong potential for integrating social connection platforms into stroke recovery and caregiver support. These findings align with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals for digital transformation in the healthcare sector. Future research should focus on conducting feasibility studies to better understand the desirable features of e-health services and digital solutions within the Saudi community.