Neurocognitive rehabilitation is a therapeutic approach designed to help individuals recover cognitive functions that have been impaired due to brain injury or neurological conditions. This type of therapy focuses on reactivating cognitive processes such as attention, perception, memory, and language, which are essential for everyday activities.
The Perfetti Method
One key method within neurocognitive rehabilitation is the Perfetti Method. Developed in the 1960s by Carlo Perfetti, this method views movement as a cognitive process. It utilizes sensory stimuli and active perception to help the brain reorganize itself, focusing on restoring the connection between sensation, intention, and movement. This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals recovering from stroke and Parkinson's disease, enabling them to actively participate in their recovery.
Benefits and Goals
The primary goal of neurocognitive rehabilitation is to improve cognitive function and enhance daily living skills. This includes helping patients regain control over their bodies and improve their understanding of their surroundings. By engaging in targeted exercises and activities, patients can rebuild neural pathways and improve their overall quality of life. Cognitive rehabilitation also addresses how cognitive impairments negatively impact discourse skills, which are commonly caused by stroke in the right hemisphere of the brain.