Article

An enriched environment (EE) facilitates physical, cognitive and social
activity in animal models of stroke. The aim of this pilot study was to determine
whether enriching the environment of a mixed rehabilitation unit increased stroke
patient activity. METHODS: A non- randomized controlled trial was conducted.
Direct observation was used to determine the difference in change in physical,
cognitive, social or any activity over 2 weeks in patients exposed to an enriched
versus non-enriched environment. RESULTS: Stroke patients in the EE (n = 15) were
1.2 (95% CI 1.0-1.4) times more likely to be engaged in any activity compared
with those in a non-enriched environment (n = 14). They were 1.7 (95% CI 1.1-2.5)
times more likely to be engaged in cognitive activities, 1.2 (95% CI 1.0-1.5)
times more likely to be engaged in social activities, 0.7 (95% CI 0.6-0.9) times
as likely to be inactive and alone and 0.5 (95% CI 0.4-0.7) times as likely to be
asleep than patients without enrichment. CONCLUSIONS:
This preliminary trial
suggests that the comprehensive model of enrichment developed for use in a
rehabilitation unit was effective in increasing activity in stroke patients and
reducing time spent inactive and alone.

Langue : ANGLAIS