A Pilot Investigation of Computerized Cognitive Rehabilitation for Post-Stroke Patients: Cognitive Function and Satisfaction

Abstract

The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the effects of computerized cognitive rehabilitation on patients after they had each experienced an acute stroke and evaluate the association between rehabilitation satisfaction and age. Eighteen patients who had each experienced an acute stroke participated in the study. They were assigned to two groups: the experimental group (n = 12) and control group (n = 6). Interventions were performed with each group for 30 minutes per day, five times per week, for four weeks. The experimental group engaged in computerized cognitive rehabilitation, and the control group participated in traditional cognitive rehabilitation. In addition, both groups engaged in traditional cognitive rehabilitation for four weeks according to an established schedule. The Lowenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment test (LOTCA) was performed to measure cognitive function. The Visual Analog Satisfaction Scale (VASS) was used to measure satisfaction with cognitive rehabilitation—specifically, overall satisfaction, therapeutic effects, interest, and intention to reuse. After the interventions, total cognitive function scores for both groups were significantly improved compared to scores before the interventions. However, the experimental group showed significant improvement in more sub-items of cognitive function compared to the control group. There was no significant difference in satisfaction between the two groups after the interventions. In the experimental group, overall satisfaction and interest in computerized cognitive rehabilitation were significantly lower among elderly participants when compared to middle-aged participants. Computerized cognitive rehabilitation may have a positive effect on cognitive function improvement. However, computerized cognitive rehabilitation programs must be developed to meet the specific characteristics and needs of elderly stroke patients.