Computerized Training in Poststroke Aphasia: What About the Long-Term Effects? A Randomized Clinical Trial

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Speech-Language Pathology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Poststroke aphasia significantly impacts communication abilities, including speech, comprehension, reading, and writing.
• Early intervention is crucial, but language improvements are also possible in the chronic phase of aphasia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of computerized rehabilitation training (Power-Afa) versus conventional speech therapy for chronic poststroke aphasia.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-two patients were randomized into an experimental group (Power-Afa) or a control group (conventional therapy).
• Both groups underwent 24 sessions over 8 weeks.
• Assessments were conducted at baseline, post-treatment, and 3-month follow-up.

Main Results:

• The experimental group showed significant improvements in all outcomes from baseline to post-treatment.
• The control group only improved in Functional Independence Measure and ideomotor praxis.
• Language and cognitive improvements were maintained at follow-up exclusively in the experimental group.

Conclusions:

• Power-Afa software is a valuable tool for enhancing linguistic and cognitive recovery in chronic poststroke aphasia.
• Further research with larger cohorts and extended follow-up is warranted to validate these findings.