Evaluating telehealth delivery of a compensatory memory rehabilitation programme following stroke: A single-case experimental design

ABSTRACT

Rehabilitation of memory remains an unmet need for many stroke survivors. Telehealth methods may provide a solution, however evidence supporting the efficacy of remotely-delivered therapy is needed. A non-concurrent multiple baseline design was used with randomized onset of intervention across five individuals with chronic stroke-related memory complaints. A six-week compensatory memory skills programme was delivered individually via internet videoconferencing. Target behaviours of frequencies of self-reported lapses of everyday and prospective memory were measured weekly across baseline, intervention, and follow-up phases. A secondary outcome of functional goal attainment was measured once per phase, with participants setting two personal rehabilitation goals. Data were analysed visually and statistically. Improvements in memory functioning were statistically significant on at least one measure of target behaviour for four out of five participants at intervention or follow-up. Visual evidence of level change indicated at least modest improvements for all participants by follow-up. All participants attained at least one functional goal by follow-up. High rates of treatment adherence and participant satisfaction were observed. Technological issues were minimal and did not impact content delivery or engagement. These results provide preliminary support for the efficacy of a telehealth-delivered rehabilitation programme in improving memory function and achieving memory-related goals for stroke survivors.

KEYWORDS:

• Telehealth
• Telerehabilitation
• Memory
• Rehabilitation
• Stroke

Acknowledgements

The authors confirm that there are no conflicts of interest to declare. This study was supported by a Stroke Foundation Small Project Grant (SPG1712) and a seed grant from the Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences. We extend great thanks to the clinicians who delivered the intervention programme, and to our participants.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Turner Institute Seed Grant; Stroke Foundation Small Project Grant [grant number SPG1712].