Cognition training in balance rehabilitation after stroke

Abstract

Objective To investigate the effect of cognition training on the recovery of balance after stroke. Methods forty-five hemiplegic strokd patents with cognition deficit were revruited and sddigned into an experimental group and a control group according to the results of an assessment with Loewenstein's Occupational Therapy Cognition Assessment battery (LOTCA). The patients in the two groups folloled routine systmatic rehabilitation programs. The patients in the (LOTCA). The patients in the two groups followed routine systmatic rehabilitation programs.The patiena in the experimental group received pertinent cognition training 5 days/week for 6 weeks. LOTCA,Brunel's Balance Assessment (BBA), the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Brunnatrom functional categories were enployed to evaluate the patients before and after treatment with regard to their cognition, balance control and motor function in their lower limbs. Results After treatment, there were statistically significant differences between preand post-treatment BBA and BBS scores in all groups. Average BBA, BBS and LOTCA scores in the experimental group were significantly higher than in the control group. The improvements in BBS, BBA and LOTCA scores in the experimental grou were significantly greater than in control group. Conclusion Cognition treatment can contribute significantly to improving balance and postural control among stroke survivors. Key words: Stroke; Balance; Cognition; Cognition deficit; Cognition intervention