Effectiveness of Function-Based Training on Cognitive Functions and Occupational Performance among Post-Stroke Survivors: A Systematic Review Protocol

Background: Stroke survivors often face significant cognitive impairments that affect their occupational performance and quality of life. Traditional rehabilitation methods may not always address the specific cognitive deficits impacting daily activities. Function-based training, which integrates cognitive tasks with functional activities, has emerged as a potential approach to enhance cognitive functions and improve occupational performance. Methods: We adopted the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocol (PRISMA-P) guidelines when developing the protocol. The review protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO)(CRD42024563917).  The search databases will include PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL Complete, EMBASE, ProQuest, and OT seeker, from 2014 to 2024.   Discussion: Extensive research and practice of various interventions such as computerized cognitive retraining have been incorporated in current clinical practice. Limited reviews are focusing on function based cognitive training and the use of varied strategies in remediating cognitive functions and occupational performance. We, therefore, intend to compile, synthesize and appraise research articles that have evaluated function-based training among post-stroke survivors. This will enrich the knowledge base and evidence base in the field of cognitive rehabilitation, providing a guiding path to occupational therapists and researchers working among post-stroke survivors.