Cognitive rehabilitation for memory deficits following stroke

Abstract

Background: Memory problems occur following stroke. Cognitive rehabilitation programmes are provided to retrain memory function or to teach patients strategies to cope despite memory impairment.

Objectives: To determine the effects of cognitive rehabilitation for memory problems following stroke.

Search strategy: We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register, Medline, EMBASE, CINHAL and CLIN PSYCH databases and reference lists from relevant articles. Date of most recent searches: December 1998.

Selection criteria: Controlled trials of memory retraining in stroke. Studies with mixed aetiology groups were excluded unless they had more than 75% of stroke patients or separate data were available for the stroke patients.

Data collection and analysis: Two reviewers extracted trial data and assessed trial quality. Reviewers contacted investigators for further details of trials.

Main results: One trial was identified with 12 participants. This showed memory strategy training had no significant effect on memory impairment or subjective memory complaints.

Reviewer's conclusions: There is insufficient evidence to support or refute the effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation for memory problems after stroke.