Telerehabilitation vs face-to-face computer-based cognitive training in stroke patients: a randomized controlled...

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Digital Health
• Stroke Recovery

Background:

• Cognitive deficits post-stroke impact daily living and recovery.
• Computer-based cognitive rehabilitation shows promise but faces access limitations.
• Telerehabilitation offers remote delivery of cognitive exercises with clinician monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of remote telerehabilitation versus face-to-face computer-based cognitive training.
• To evaluate cognitive outcomes in subacute post-stroke participants.

Main Methods:

• A single-blind randomized controlled trial involving 39 participants.
• Eight weeks of 3-hours/week cognitive rehabilitation via technology device.
• Assessment of cognitive function, mood, and quality of life at baseline, post-treatment, and follow-up.

Main Results:

• Both telerehabilitation and face-to-face groups showed comparable improvements in visual attention and long-term memory (verbal and visuo-spatial).
• No significant changes were observed in working memory or dual-task performance.
• Anxiety, depressive symptoms, and quality of life remained stable across both groups.

Conclusions:

• Telerehabilitation demonstrates comparable cognitive benefits to traditional face-to-face treatment for post-stroke patients.
• Telerehabilitation is a feasible and accessible option for cognitive rehabilitation in stroke survivors.