Differences in awareness between persons with left and right hemispheric stroke

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate whether there are any differences in awareness of ability between persons with left and right hemispheric stroke. Methods: The sample consisted of data from the Assessment of Awareness of Ability (A³) database, primarily consisting of clients admitted to occupational therapy services. In total the study included 183 data records from clients, 78 with left and 105 with right hemispheric stroke. Awareness of ability was assessed using the Assessment of Awareness of Ability (A³). Differences in awareness were investigated using t-tests, CI, effect size, and differential item functioning. Results: No significant overall mean difference (t-test = 1.31, p = 0.19) in awareness between left and right hemispheric stroke was identified. However, significant differences (p < 0.05) were identified on three specific items included in the A³. In these cases, persons with right hemispheric stroke showed a more limited awareness. Conclusion: Persons with right hemispheric stroke have more pronounced problems with being aware of limitations in specific ADL performance skills compared with persons with left hemispheric stroke.