Understanding the experience of compensatory and restorative memory rehabilitation: A qualitative study of stroke survivors

ABSTRACT

Memory impairment is common following stroke. Memory skills groups (MSGs) utilising compensatory strategies and computerised cognitive training (CCT) are two rehabilitation approaches available to improve memory function; however, there is no consensus as to which is more effective following stroke. This study aimed to explore and contrast the qualitative experiences of 20 stroke survivors (M_age = 61.90, SD = 10.48, range: 34–77 years) who received six weeks’ training in MSG (manualised memory skills group, n = 10) or individual-CCT (Lumosity^TM, n = 10). Using semi-structured interviews, data were collected and analysed thematically, adopting a critical realist approach. Six themes were identified: (1) Facilitators and barriers to intervention engagement, (2) Improving knowledge and understanding, (3) Connecting with others, (4) Perception of the intervention, (5) Impact on everyday memory and (6) Impact on emotions and sense of purpose. Encouragingly, most participants valued and enjoyed participating in the memory interventions, irrespective of rehabilitation approach. MSG participants reported learning and sharing with similar others as important to the experience and described everyday memory improvements. CCT participants described enjoyment of its game-like nature, yet reported frustration associated with game-specific characteristics, and did not report everyday memory improvements.

KEYWORDS:

• Memory rehabilitation
• Cognitive training
• Memory skills group
• Compensatory strategies
• Stroke rehabilitation
• Qualitative analysis

Disclosure statement

Lumosity™ was provided free of charge from Lumos Labs. However, all aspects of research design, conduct and reporting were undertaken independently by the authors.

ORCID

Toni D. Withiel http://orcid.org/0000-0001-8075-2760

Vanessa L. Sharp http://orcid.org/0000-0002-2481-1030

Dana Wong http://orcid.org/0000-0001-9619-1929

Jennie L. Ponsford http://orcid.org/0000-0003-0430-125X

Narelle Warren http://orcid.org/0000-0003-2623-4078

Renerus J. Stolwyk http://orcid.org/0000-0002-4975-3332