Efficacy of immersive virtual reality-based self-managed naming therapy for chronic post-stroke aphasia: A randomized controlled trial.

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of immersive virtual reality-based naming therapy in individuals with chronic post-stroke aphasia.DesignRandomized, single-blind, parallel-group, and controlled trial.SettingBolu Abant Izzet Baysal University Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Hospital.ParticipantsA total of 102 individuals with non-fluent aphasia (aged 40-80 years), randomly assigned to two groups (n = 51 each).InterventionsThe virtual reality group received virtual reality-based self-managed naming therapy in an immersive environment, while the control group received conventional therapy. Both interventions were delivered 5 times per week over 8 weeks.Outcome measuresThe primary outcome was language performance, measured by the Gulhane Aphasia Test. Secondary outcomes included Stroke and Aphasia Quality of Life Scale and enjoyment.ResultsAt baseline, groups were similar in demographics and clinical measures (p > 0.05). Both groups showed significant improvements in the Gulhane Aphasia Test and Stroke and Aphasia Quality of Life Scale scores (p < 0.05). The virtual reality group improved across all Gulhane Aphasia Test subscales (p < 0.05). In contrast, the control group did not show gains in listening comprehension and repetition. Stroke and Aphasia Quality of Life subscale improvements were broader in the virtual reality group. Between-group comparisons indicated significantly higher gains in the virtual reality group in oral motor (p = 0.005), naming (p = 0.001), and enjoyment (p = 0.002).ConclusionsTherapy based on immersive virtual reality showed better results for naming, quality of life, and patient engagement. These findings suggest that virtual reality is an effective intervention for aphasia rehabilitation. Future studies are needed to investigate long-term effects and the potential for home-based applications.