In the NeAR study we examine the prevalence, impact, and severity of visuospatial neglect in geriatric rehabilitation, as well as the consequences of neglect in activities and community participation after geriatric rehabilitation.
Visuospatial neglect – VSN – is a common cognitive disorder after a stroke, characterized by loss or reduction of spatial awareness for the contralesional space. VSN has negative consequences such as a longer rehabilitation, less recovery, and more dependence in performing activities.
However, it is unclear to what extent this occurs in an elderly population with the aim of home return after rehabilitation, because patients with VSN who are admitted to a geriatric rehabilitation department are not always structurally assessed. By properly and sensitively diagnosing VSN, we can gain more insight into the prevalence and impact of VSN in this specific population.
In addition, it is important to examine the consequences of VSN for the performance of activities and for community participation of this geriatric population. This will make it possible to integrate these aspects at an earlier stage of rehabilitation. By gaining more insight into this population and the consequences of VSN, we can better inform, rehabilitate, and prepare the patient and possibly informal caregiver for discharge home.
