Interventions for post-stroke apathy and their effects: A scoping review.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Psychiatry
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Post-stroke apathy is a common and debilitating condition affecting patient recovery and quality of life.
• Existing interventions for post-stroke apathy lack comprehensive mapping and effect analysis.
• Understanding the landscape of interventions is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review to comprehensively map interventions for post-stroke apathy.
• To analyze the effects of various interventions on apathy symptoms and related functional outcomes.
• To identify gaps and inform future research directions in post-stroke apathy management.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, CINAHL, and Web of Science up to August 7, 2025.
• The review followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines, focusing on patients with post-stroke apathy and their interventions.
• Data extraction and synthesis involved independent screening by three reviewers.

Main Results:

• Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria, detailing pharmacological, non-pharmacological, and combined interventions.
• Pharmacological interventions demonstrated efficacy in improving apathy symptoms, motivation, and social behavior.
• Non-pharmacological interventions aided symptom relief and recovery, while combined approaches improved apathy, depression, language, and behavior.

Conclusions:

• Appropriate interventions can effectively manage post-stroke apathy, leading to symptom relief and functional improvements.
• Combined treatment strategies show potential for broader benefits, including enhanced language and social participation.
• Future research should prioritize systematic reviews and meta-analyses to establish evidence-based recommendations for treatment.