Aviya Lanis Levy

Abstract Purpose To describe the development of The Hand Activity and Behavior Intervention (HABIT) and to evaluate its feasibility and initial effectiveness in increasing daily hand‑use among individuals post‑stroke with good motor ability. Methods HABIT was developed by integrating behavior‑change principles, a motivational-social theory and an occupational therapy model. Community‑dwelling adults post‑stroke (Fugl–Meyer Assessment ≥ 43/66) participated in HABIT (10-group sessions).

1 INTRODUCTION Physical activity is a major determinant of healthy living. Physical activity—alongside other lifestyle factors such as diet, smoking, and alcohol intake—significantly impacts mortality and healthcare expenses.1 Planned physical activity characterized by specific type, frequency, duration, and intensity is referred to as “exercise.”2 The benefits of physical activity/exercise are numerous.