This trial is examining the effectiveness of a new behavioral treatment for patients with stroke. The main outcome to be measured will be participant satisfaction. This study is being conducted in New York, US.
The details
A stroke consists of a blockage of the blood flow to the brain by a blood clot (80% of the cases). This can also happen when a blood vessel in the brain breaks. Survivors are usually left with long-term side effects such as arm paralysis or even mental symptoms.
ASCEND is a behavioral therapy that combines computer-based mental exercises to improve attention, memory and mental control. However, its feasibility in stroke survivors is still not clear.
This trial is examining the effectiveness of a new behavioral treatment for patients with stroke. The main outcome to be measured will be participant satisfaction.
Who are they looking for?
This trial will be recruiting 20 participants with stroke and mental symptoms. These patients must have had a stroke 6 months prior to the start of this trial and must be English speaking. Patients must have a computer and must be able to perform basic self-care activities (such as dressing or eating).
Participants must not have a history of other mental diseases, drug/alcohol abuse, depression, dementia or dependence in performing daily self-care activities. These patients must be able to undergo MRI examinations.
How will it work
All participants will receive 24 computer training sessions of 30 minutes each for a total of 12 hours. This will be followed by 8 coaching sessions of 45 minutes each.
Patients will engage in interactive computer games that stimulate attention, memory, and mental control. The homework exercises and coaching sessions will assist the participant to generalize and transfer the skills learned in the computer to daily life.
The main outcome to be measured will be participant satisfaction through questionnaires.
