Functional and Cognitive Occupational Therapy (FaCT) Improves Self-Efficacy and Behavioral-Emotional Status of Individuals with Mild Stroke; Analysis of Secondary Outcomes.

Background: Mild stroke is characterized by subtle impairments, such as low self-efficacy and emotional and behavioral symptoms, which restrict daily living. Functional and Cognitive Occupational Therapy (FaCT) is a novel intervention, developed for individuals with mild stroke.

Objectives: To examine the effectiveness of FaCT compared to a control group to improve self-efficacy, behavior, and emotional status (secondary outcome measures).

Material And Methods: Community-dwelling individuals with mild stroke participated in a single-blind randomized controlled trial with assessments at pre, post, and 3-month follow-up. FaCT included 10 weekly individual sessions practicing cognitive and behavioral strategies. The control group received standard care. The New General Self-Efficacy Scale assessed self-efficacy; the Geriatric Depression Scale assessed depressive symptoms; the Dysexecutive Questionnaire assessed behavior and emotional status; and the 'perception of self' subscale from the Reintegration to Normal Living Index assessed participation.

Results: Sixty-six participants were randomized to FaCT (n = 33, mean (SD) age 64.6 (8.2)) and to the control (n = 33, age 64.4 (10.8)). Self-efficacy, depression, behavior, and emotional status improved significantly over time in the FaCT group compared with the control, with small to large effect size values.

Conclusion: The efficacy of FaCT was established. FaCT should be considered for community-dwelling individuals with mild stroke.