Overview
This experimental design will assess the feasibility & initial effectiveness of HABIT - a novel occupational therapy to increase the daily hand-use of the affected upper extremity post stroke.
Assessments will be conducted at four time points: baseline, pre, post the HABIT intervention and follow-up (by phone) .
Description
The goal of this study is to test the feasibility and efficacy of HABIT (Hand Activities Behavior Intervention) in increasing daily hand-use of the affected upper extremity among individuals with good motor ability post-stroke.
The aim of HABIT is to increase the daily use of the weaker hand in everyday activities by improving non-motor components (such as self-efficacy, raising the frustration threshold for performing tasks with the affected upper extremity, and creating opportunities for hand use). HABIT will include group discussions, analysis of challenges in using the affected upper extremity, home exercises, problem-solving and practice and dual-task activities. The intervention will focus on raising awareness, changing habits, and practicing the use of the affected upper extremity.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Adults aged 18 and above residing in their own homes
- Hebrew speakers
- Up to 10 years post-stroke
- Mild upper extremity motor impairment but still report difficulty using their hand. This will be determined by a total score of 43/66, including the Hand subtest score of 7/14 points of the Fugl-Meyer Motor Assessment.
- No significant cognitive decline (score of 19 and above on Montreal Cognitive Assessment)
- Able to walk with or without assistive devices
- Able to provide informed consent by signing a consent form
- Full function of both hands and independent in daily function prior to stroke
Exclusion Criteria:
- Other neurological conditions or psychiatrists
- with moderate or significant proprioception deficit (Thumb Localization Test >1)