Comparison of Face-to-face, Synchronous and Asynchronous Use of Methods Tele-Assessment

Comparison of Face-to-face, Synchronous and Asynchronous Use of Methods Used for Balance Assessment

The aim of the study is to examine the reliability and validity of the synchronous and asynchronous application of Berg Balance Scale and Tinetti Balance Test in stroke patients.

Two physiotherapists will evaluate stroke patients' balance using the berg balance scale and the Tinetti balance test. Before the evaluation, patients will be informed about the mask, distance, and hygiene issues, which will be considered in the assessment. On the first day, information about the patient and the disease, filling in the patient data form, and face-to-face assessment will be made face to face with the patients. The next day, one synchronous and asynchronous tele-evaluation method will be applied. Evaluations will be made at the same time zone of the day, determined by the randomization method, one day apart. For the learning effect to not positively impact a technique in the assessments, the order of the checks applied to each will change. The first physiotherapist will conduct face-to-face interviews and evaluations in a clinical setting. In the meantime, necessary measures will be taken due to the pandemic. The synchronous tele-assessment will be evaluated online in real-time by the second physiotherapist. At the same time, the first physiotherapist will make their evaluations online without giving instructions during this evaluation. For asynchronous tele-assessment, a reference evaluation video will be sent to the patients. Relatives of the patients will be asked to watch this video, make the evaluation and take a video recording at the same time. Then, these video recordings will be evaluated separately by the first and second physiotherapists, and the results will be compared. Each assessment will take approximately 30 minutes. The test evaluation will be performed again. Asynchronous tele-evaluation videos will also be re-evaluated in 25% of individuals after ten days. This way, instead of having the patients repeat the same tests, the test will be repeated on the first test.

Inclusion Criteria:

• have been diagnosed with stroke,
• aged 18 and over,
• literate,
• stroke caused by anterior circulation,
• computer, phone and tablet etc. Having experience in the use of technological devices and experienced caregivers in this regard,
• at least Stage 3 in the lower extremities according to Brunnstrom Recovery Stages,
• A score of 24 and above in the Mini Mental State Test

Exclusion Criteria:

• vestibular lesion/dysfunction,
• auditory and visual lesion/dysfunction,
• accompanying neurological disorders (Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson, Ataxia, dystonia, dyskinesia, etc.)
• psychiatric disorders
• patients with aphasia to a degree that causes communication problems will not be included.