The Treatment of Visual Neglect Using the Transfer of Training Approach

Fourteen patients with visual neglect following a right hemisphere stroke were identified using the Behavioural Inattention Test. Patients received no practice on perceptual tasks for 4 weeks. Their abilities were assessed weekly. All patients then received practice on perceptual tasks designed to improve visual neglect for 4 weeks and results were analysed as single cases using an AB design. Only 3 of the 14 patients completing the study showed improved perceptual test scores following the introduction of treatment. These had the most severe visual neglect. The transfer of training approach does not appear to enhance the recovery of visual neglect in the majority of patients, although a few patients with severe problems may benefit.