Restoring Mobility at Home: Impact of Task-Oriented Training on Functional Performance after Stroke

Abstract

Background: Impaired balance, reduced lower limb control, and difficulty in performing transitional movements such as sit-to-stand and stepping frequently limit functional mobility in individuals with chronic stroke, increasing their risk of falls during daily activities. Task-oriented training emphasizes repetitive practice of functional tasks and has been shown to improve mobility and motor performance. However, regular attendance at clinic-based rehabilitation programs is not always feasible for many stroke survivors, highlighting the need for effective home-based rehabilitation strategies. Objective: To evaluate the effect of Home-based Task-oriented training on Functional mobility in chronic stroke survivors. Methods: A Prospective follow up study was conducted among chronic stroke survivors. Functional mobility was assessed using the Timed Up and Go Test before and after a four-week Home-based Taskoriented training program. Participants performed functional exercises including sit-to-stand and step-up activities for 30 minutes per session, five days per week for four weeks. Exercise intensity was maintained at a rating of perceived exertion of 4 (somewhat hard). Results: Participants demonstrated improvement in functional mobility (p≤0.05) following the intervention as indicated by reduced Timed Up and Go test duration. Conclusion: The findings suggest that a Structured Home-based Task-oriented training program can improve functional mobility in individuals with chronic stroke. Incorporating simple functional exercises such as sit-to-stand and step-up activities in a home environment may provide a practical and accessible rehabilitation approach to enhance mobility and support independence in daily activities among stroke survivors.