Introduction
The
aim of this research was to evaluate the impact of a novel
tele-rehabilitation system on self-reported functional outcomes compared
to usual care during the first three months after stroke.
Methods
A
parallel, two-arm, evaluator-blinded, randomised controlled trial was
conducted. Adults aged ≥40 years who had suffered a stroke within four
weeks of the start of the study were recruited from the general
community. The intervention group received access to a novel
tele-rehabilitation system and programme for three months. The primary
outcome measures utilised were the frequency and limitation total scores
of the Late-Life Function and Disability Instrument (LLFDI) at three
months.
Results
A
total of 124 individuals were recruited. The mean differences in the
LLDFI frequency and limitation total scores at three months comparing
the intervention and control groups were –3.30 (95% confidence interval
(CI) –7.81 to 1.21) and –6.90 (95% CI –15.02 to 1.22), respectively.
Adjusting for the respective baseline covariates and baseline Barthel
Index also showed no significant difference between interventions in the
LLFDI outcomes.
Discussion
The
intervention and control groups self-reported similar improvements in
functional outcomes. Tele-rehabilitation may be a viable option to
provide post-stroke rehabilitation services in Singapore while reducing
barriers to continue rehabilitation conventionally after discharge from
hospital and encouraging more participation.
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