How Experimental Therapy Improves Stroke Cognitive Function
Stroke is a neurological condition in which there is an interruption in blood flow to an area of the brain. As a result, people become unable to perform certain cognitive activities such as memory, problem solving, attention and decision-making. To treat stroke recovery strategies have been devised.
Clinical trials are research studies designed to determine if a new drug or treatment is safe and effective in humans. This type of research utilizes a controlled environment with a randomized design so that all groups receive equal effects from the therapy.
Psychological interventions are a well-established therapeutic option for stroke patients that may improve cognition after the event. These treatments focus on various psychological processes, such as cognitive training. The purpose of these therapies is to restore cognitive function and enhance quality of life for all involved.
Poststroke depression is a common complication that may develop for those who have survived strokes. Unfortunately, the best way to treat this disorder can be challenging; therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a psychological intervention for treating poststroke depression in stroke survivors.
This study demonstrated that cognitive rehabilitation therapy (CRT) significantly reduced poststroke depression symptoms among stroke survivors. The CRT group experienced a reduction in their poststroke depression score compared to both the control group (CG) and psychoeducation group (PE).
Meditation has also been proven to have beneficial effects on mental health for those suffering from stroke. Meditation reduces stress, anxiety and tension while improving focus and clarity when doing tasks. There are countless apps and YouTube resources available to teach you these techniques of meditation.
Classic board games, card games and puzzles are excellent ways to exercise your brain. Simon is one such example – it helps stimulate executive functions and memory in the brain. Other popular board and card games that improve cognitive abilities include Checkers, Connect Four, Rumikub, Mahjong, Rush Hour Set Blink Spot It and Qwirkle.
Brain teasers are an excellent way to strengthen cognitive skills after a stroke. These games typically test your analytical and quantitative reasoning abilities, and can be found on various websites or apps such as Games for the Brain and CT Speech & Cognitive Therapy App.
Coin counting is an excellent cognitive exercise that can enhance your quantitative and analytical thinking. To get started, place some coins randomly on a table, then count how much money is in them.
To add another level of difficulty to this exercise, place more than 10 coins on a table and count them individually. Afterward, you can use your calculator to add up all the numbers together.
Other exercises to improve cognitive function after a stroke include “brain teasers,” such as Sudoku or word searches. Although these tasks can be challenging, they can be played with friends or family members for added support.