Ask your competent? doctor if this is enough to recover your 5 lost years of brain cognition due to your stroke?
Researchers develop tool to help stroke survivors recover cognitive functions
Computer-Adaptive Cognitive Training (CACT) tool functions like a game, adapting in real-time to the patient’s abilities
Updated - February 10, 2025 11:31 pm IST - Bengaluru
Cognitive impairment is a common consequence of stroke, characterised by deficits in cognitive functioning, language and functional abilities. | Photo Credit: Getty Images
Introducing a cutting-edge approach to neurorehabilitation, a team of psychologists from Indore, one of whom was formerly with NIMHANS, have developed an innovative tool to help stroke survivors recover cognitive functions.
To address these challenges, a team led by Amit Kumar Soni from Government MLB Girls PG College and Devi Ahilya University developed Computer-Adaptive Cognitive Training, a tool that provides personalised rehabilitation.
“The CACT tool functions like a game, adapting in real-time to the patient’s abilities. It targets critical cognitive skills such as memory, attention, and problem-solving through tailored exercises. Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions, CACT ensures that patients are consistently challenged without feeling overwhelmed,” explained Dr. Soni, who was formerly with NIMHANS.
Findings
The research involved 50 male participants recovering from recent strokes. “In this randomised controlled trial, we assessed the effectiveness of a four-week, remotely-delivered, multi-domain, computer-adaptive cognitive retraining (CACT) programme in patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment. The participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental group, which underwent the CACT program tailored to individual performance levels, or an active control group that received standard care.,” the doctor said.
The evaluation focused on neuropsychological functions such as attention, memory, and executive processes, alongside daily living skills. Results indicated that participants in the CACT group exhibited notable improvements in several cognitive areas, including processing speed, category fluency, and visual confrontation naming when compared to the control group. Nonetheless, enhancements in functional abilities, encompassing basic and instrumental activities of daily living (ADL), were minimal, with no significant changes reported post-intervention.
Highlighting the importance of these findings, Dr. Soni said: “CACT offers a unique blend of accessibility and personalisation. By adjusting tasks to individual abilities, it ensures that each patient can achieve meaningful cognitive recovery.”
While cognitive improvements were clear, the study noted minimal impact on everyday tasks like managing finances or cooking. The researchers plan to expand the tool’s capabilities to address practical applications in daily life.
Impact
Mohit Kumar from AIIMS Bhopal, a key collaborator on the project, said the CACT system has the potential to transform neurorehabilitation worldwide. “Its home-based design makes it accessible to patients who cannot visit clinics regularly, and its affordability ensures that cost is no longer a barrier to recovery. Hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centres globally can integrate CACT into their services, extending its benefits to a broader population,” the doctor said.
Dr. Soni worked with Dr. Kumar and Saroj Kothari from Devi Ahilya University to develop and test CACT. Their combined expertise in psychology, psychiatry, and neurorehabilitation ensured a comprehensive and scientifically rigorous approach.
“This research represents India’s growing contributions to global healthcare innovation. This tool is not just for India. It is a solution that can be used in hospitals and clinics around the world,” said Dr. Kothari.
The team plans to expand their research to include women, older adults, and diverse patient groups, ensuring the tool’s effectiveness across populations. They are also exploring ways to make CACT available through digital platforms, increasing its reach and impact.
