Northampton

Researchers are studying spatial neglect, a condition affecting more than half of Veterans after a right brain stroke, which causes difficulties in moving, orienting, and responding to the left side. This condition leads to problems with dressing, eating, self-care, and wheelchair steering, significantly reducing independence and increasing care needs. The study aims to develop a brain scan test that can identify Veterans who would benefit most from prism adaptation therapy PAT to improve their functional recovery and quality of life. The study evaluates prism adaptation therapy PAT, a 10-day visuomotor training using optical prisms that has shown potential in treating spatial neglect. Participants with spatial neglect will receive PAT, while those without spatial neglect will not receive this intervention. The research team will develop and validate brain imaging biomarkers to predict who will respond best to PAT, combining these with behavioral predictors to enhance personalized rehabilitation approaches. Participants will undergo brain scans and assessments for spatial neglect type and severity. Functional independence will be measured five weeks after enrollment to track improvement. The study includes behavioral tests like the Behavioral Inattention Test and Catherine Bergego Scale. Researchers will monitor participants progress and treatment response to establish objective criteria for recommending PAT, aiming to improve stroke rehabilitation outcomes for Veterans over the study period.