Achieving ADL Independence Post-Stroke Through Occupational Therapy Interventions

Abstract

This rapid systematic review evaluates the current literature on occupational therapy interventions aimed at improving ADL independence in post-stroke individuals. 28 studies were evaluated and 6 categories (task-oriented training, virtual reality and video games, technology, constraint-induced movement therapy, electrical stimulation, and other) of interventions were identified. The 28 articles used in this rapid systematic review were retrieved from PubMed and CINAHL using Covidence. Literature included are publications from the past 10 years, studies with participants 60+ years of age that have experienced a stroke, and studies with interventions focused on ADL independence. Level IV and V studies were excluded. TOT, CIMT/mCIMT, technology, E-stim, VR and virtual reality, sensory interventions, ankle-foot orthoses, and strategy training are evidence-based stroke interventions that have been showing improvement in ADL participation when compared to the standard of care. Findings reveal overall moderately strong evidence for the impact of the identified occupational therapy interventions on ADL performance for adults 60+ post-stroke. The current review supports six categories of interventions that improve ADL independence, which informs occupational therapy practice for older adult stroke patients.