How can social cognition be improved in neurological patients? a systematic review

The neural network underlying social cognition (SC) may be vulnerable to different types of lesions, but also amenable to recovery through interventions that stimulate brain plasticity. This review assessed current non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs) and their effects on SC in neurological patients.

A systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. Randomized controlled studies, cohort studies, cross-sectional studies, case series, case reports, and literature reviews were included if they reported a precise description of the NPI in subjects older than 6 years, with brain or cerebellar lesion.

Among 5.077 screened articles, 17 fulfilled the eligibility criteria. These articles provided 19 face-to-face, online or hybrid methods, involving 344 patients with multiple sclerosis, stroke, Parkinson disease, cerebellar ataxia, traumatic brain injuries or mixed acquired brain injuries. The methods were applied in observational and randomized study designs using group or individual settings, involving SC, general cognition, and relational aspects. These NPIs, classifiable into training, rehabilitation or combined interventions, improved SC in patients with various diagnosis and age.

Results show that NPIs for SC in neurological patients is being addressed with insightful methods and study designs with improvement possibility in children and adults suffering different pathologies. This is not sufficient for thorough consensus but can trigger a range of broader high-quality and interdisciplinary clinical and research applications.