The effect of first‐person perspective action observation training on upper extremity function and activity of daily living of chronic stroke patients

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of First‐Person Perspective Action Observation training and Third‐Person Perspective Action Observation training on upper extremity function and activities of daily living of patients with stroke‐induced hemiplegia. This was a single‐blind randomized study of 20 stroke patients (more than 6 months after the incident stroke) with upper extremity disabilities. The subjects who satisfied the inclusion and exclusion criteria were randomly divided into two groups: First‐Person Perspective Action Observation training group and Third‐Person Perspective Action Observation training group. The measurements were performed using Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) and Korean Modified Barthel Index (K‐MBI) and Motor Activity Log (MAL). The results of this study showed statistically significant differences (p < .05) in the upper extremity function and activity of daily living after the intervention in all two groups. Upon comparison of the amount of change between the experimental group and the control group, there was significant difference in upper extremity function and activity of daily living (p < .05). Action Observation training was found to have an effect on the upper extremity function and activity of daily living on chronic stroke patients. First‐Person Perspective Action Observation training was more effective in improving upper limb function and activity of daily living than the Third‐Person Perspective Action Observation training.