Efficacy of Technologically Assisted Neurorehabilitation on Return to Work and Quality of Life Post-stroke in Italy

Cerebrovascular diseases like stroke, predominantly affect older adults, and “return to work” (RTW) has rarely been studied as a rehabilitation outcome. Existing data on RTW post-stroke show wide variability, with rates ranging from 11–85%. Lack of work reintegration is linked to increased cardiac issues, depression, mortality, social isolation, and poor adaptive skills. This study evaluated the impact of technology-based rehabilitation using optic (SonicHand) and wearable (Riablo™) systems, which provide auditory and visual biofeedback, on RTW outcomes for stroke patients. Although no significant differences were found in RTW rates between technological and conventional rehabilitation, the former had a higher odds ratio (OR = 9 vs. 6). Assistive devices were more commonly used among non-RTW patients. Additionally, patients who returned to their pre-stroke employment conditions reported better quality of life.