Effect of an individualized digital coaching program on swallowing function in stroke patients

Purpose Dysphagia is a common complication after a stroke. Home-based rehabilitation would be an alternative or complementary solution to dysphagia management. This study aimed to validate the effect of an individualized digital coaching program on swallowing function in stroke patients. Methods A total of 109 patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to either the intervention group (received a 6-week individualized digital coaching program) or the control group (standard care). The primary outcome was a functional oral intake scale (FOIS). The secondary outcomes were the swallowing quality-of-life questionnaire (SWAL-QOL) and pneumonia. Results Among 101 patients, the number of patients who recovered from dysphagia in the intervention group was significantly more than that of the control group at three weeks. Concurrently, the comparison between the control and intervention groups was non-significant at six weeks. The change in the swallowing quality-of-life questionnaire of the intervention group was significantly more significant than that of the control group. No significant difference in the incidence of pneumonia was observed. Conclusion The individualized digital coaching program can improve swallowing function and swallowing quality-of-life (SWAL-QOL) in stroke patients, indicating its potential for home-based rehabilitation.