Two Approaches to Treating Unilateral Neglect After Right Hemisphere Stroke: A Preliminary Investigation

Abstract

Purpose: This preliminary study assessed the efficacy of two treatment methods for persistent unilateral or hemispatial neglect following right hemisphere stroke. Method: Two patients received an intervention focusing on the underlying impairment of attention during visual scanning. Two other participants received an intervention that provided repetitive practice during a functional task of oral reading. Standardized tests of attention and neglect were administered before and after treatment. Performance on a functional task assessing generalization of treatment was probed at every session. Results: Results indicate no clear conclusions regarding the efficacy of either approach. Factors contributing to these equivocal findings are addressed.

Keywords:

• hemispatial neglect
• stroke
• treatment