Researchers develop tool to help stroke survivors recover cognitive functions 

Cutting-edge cognitive rehabilitation tool developed by psychologists in Indore offers hope to stroke survivors worldwide.

Introducing a cutting-edge approach to neurorehabilitation, a team of psychologists from Indore, one of whom was formerly with NIMHANS, have developed an innovative tool to help stroke survivors recover cognitive functions. 

Their study, published last month in Scientific Reports, a Nature journal, has offered new hope to stroke survivors. Cognitive impairment is a common consequence of stroke, characterised by deficits in cognitive functioning, language and functional abilities. Innovative technological approaches, such as computerised cognitive retraining, offer promising strategies for mitigating cognitive challenges. However, despite their potential, the impact of these interventions on neuropsychological function and daily living capabilities has poor outcomes.

To address these challenges, a team led by Amit Kumar Soni from Government MLB Girls PG College and Devi Ahilya University developed Computer-Adaptive Cognitive Training, a tool that provides personalised rehabilitation.

“The CACT tool functions like a game, adapting in real-time to the patient’s abilities. It targets critical cognitive skills such as memory, attention, and problem-solving through tailored exercises. Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions, CACT ensures that patients are consistently challenged without feeling overwhelmed,” explained Dr. Soni, who was formerly with NIMHANS.

The research involved 50 male participants recovering from recent strokes. “In this randomised controlled trial, we assessed the effectiveness of a four-week, remotely-delivered, multi-domain, computer-adaptive cognitive retraining (CACT) programme in patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment. The participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental group, which underwent the CACT program tailored to individual performance levels, or an active control group that received standard care.,” the doctor said.

The evaluation focused on neuropsychological functions such as attention, memory, and executive processes, alongside daily living skills. Results indicated that participants in the CACT group exhibited notable improvements in several cognitive areas, including processing speed, category fluency, and visual confrontation naming when compared to the control group. Nonetheless, enhancements in functional abilities, encompassing basic and instrumental activities of daily living (ADL), were minimal, with no significant changes reported post-intervention.

Highlighting the importance of these findings, Dr. Soni said: “CACT offers a unique blend of accessibility and personalisation. By adjusting tasks to individual abilities, it ensures that each patient can achieve meaningful cognitive recovery.”