Strategy Training for Hemispatial Neglect
(SOAR Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores a new method to assist stroke survivors who struggle with neglect, a condition that affects attention to one side of the body or surroundings. The focus is on strategy training, which teaches participants to set personal goals and find ways to improve daily activities. The trial compares this strategy training to a control group that reflects on their rehabilitation experiences. Stroke survivors experiencing neglect and living within 30 miles of the University of Pittsburgh might be suitable candidates. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance rehabilitation strategies for stroke survivors.
What prior data suggests that strategy training is safe for individuals with hemispatial neglect?
Research has shown that strategy training for hemispatial neglect is generally well-received by patients. In one study, 12 patients who underwent this training experienced significant improvements in their condition without any serious side effects, suggesting that the training is safe for stroke survivors.
Although specific data on negative effects from this training is lacking, it is a non-invasive mental exercise, likely carrying minimal risk. The training involves setting personal goals and self-evaluation, akin to everyday problem-solving tasks. This makes it a low-risk option for those considering participation in a clinical trial for neglect.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about strategy training for hemispatial neglect because it empowers patients to set personalized goals and develop tailored strategies to overcome daily challenges. Unlike traditional rehabilitation methods, which often focus on general exercises, strategy training encourages self-assessment and active problem-solving, making it highly individualized. This approach could lead to more meaningful improvements in daily functioning for patients, potentially transforming how we support those with hemispatial neglect.
What evidence suggests that strategy training is effective for hemispatial neglect?
Research has shown that strategy training, which participants in this trial may receive, can help people with unilateral spatial neglect, a condition where individuals struggle to notice things on one side after a stroke. One study found that this training reduced the tendency to ignore the affected side, even though it didn't improve overall detection. Other studies have demonstrated that strategy training can significantly improve symptoms like neglect when tested with simple tasks. This method teaches patients to set personal goals and evaluate their progress, helping them become more aware of their neglect and reduce disability. Overall, evidence suggests that strategy training holds promise for assisting people with this condition.12456
Who Is on the Research Team?
Emily Grattan, PhD, OTR/L
Principal Investigator
University of Pittsburgh
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 who had a stroke and are experiencing neglect, which means they have trouble noticing one side of their body or environment. They must live within 30 miles of the University of Pittsburgh, score below certain levels on specific tests for neglect, and show some self-awareness issues. People with severe depression, aphasia (trouble with language), dementia, or those unwilling to be videotaped can't join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo strategy training to develop personalized goals and self-assess their performance of daily activities
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in self-awareness and client satisfaction post-intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Strategy Training
Trial Overview
The study is testing 'strategy training' aimed at improving awareness and reducing disability in people living with neglect after a stroke. It compares this new intervention against an attention control group to see if it helps individuals become more aware of their neglected space during daily activities.
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Active Control
The strategy training intervention teaches individuals to develop personalized goals, self-assess their performance of daily activities, and develop and evaluate strategies designed to overcome barriers and improve their performance of daily activities. Participants use a workbook to support their application of the strategy training.
The attention control intervention controls for the non-specific effects of strategy training. The study team will administer the standardized and dose-matched protocol, using scripted open-ended questions to facilitate participants' reflections on their rehabilitation activities and experiences. Participants complete a daily journal, merely reviewing their rehabilitation activities.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Pittsburgh
Lead Sponsor
Citations
Spatial Exploration Strategy Training for Spatial Neglect
The results showed that the treatment reduced lateralized bias toward the ipsilesional side of space but did not improve overall detection performance. Impaired ...
Strategy Training for Individuals With Unilateral Neglect
This study seeks to examine the effects of strategy training on self-awareness, disability, and neglect. Unilateral spatial neglect (neglect) post stroke is ...
Strategy Training for Hemispatial Neglect
The study is testing 'strategy training' to see if it can help improve self-awareness, reduce disability, and address neglect by teaching patients how to better ...
Visuo-spatial neglect: A systematic review of current ...
Using this paradigm, several studies reported a significant improvement of the neglect symptoms as assessed by simple paper and pencil tasks. In order to ...
Identifying spatial neglect – an updated systematic review ...
This systematic review critically appraised the evidence for the psychometric properties of 33 commonly used assessment tools for identifying spatial neglect in ...
Four Basic Strategies to Improve Hemispatial Neglect
Four Basic Strategies to Improve Hemispatial Neglect · 1. Anchors. Anchors are the strategy of using a target to visually focus on the left side. · 2. Guides.
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