Cognitive performance after stroke at a young age from a brain network perspective.

Cognitive impairment is present in nearly half of young stroke survivors, with about one-quarter suffering from aphasia. Recent studies have explored trajectories of cognitive functioning beyond the acute phase after stroke, the potential mechanisms of post-stroke cognitive impairment, and cognitive rehabilitation strategies informed by these findings. In this review, we describe the temporal course of cognitive performance in young adults after stroke and examine how focal stroke lesions disrupt local and global brain networks, affecting cognitive functions. We further discuss the concept of brain resilience and review evidence on cognitive rehabilitation interventions. We highlight knowledge gaps in age-specific studies, emphasizing that network-informed and individualized approaches are needed to optimize long-term functional outcomes in young stroke patients.