Family Issues in Rehabilitation of Patients with Malignant Brain Tumors

Issue title: Family Outcome and Intervention

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Haut, Marc W.^{; *} | Haut, Jennifer S.^{; *} | Bloomfield, Stephen S.^{; *}

Affiliations: West Virginia University School of Medicine

Note: [*] The authors acknowledge the patients, family, and staff of the Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center for their assistance and cooperation with the Brain Tumor Cooperative Group weekly clinic. Appreciation is also expressed to Andrew S. Bradlyn, PhD, who reviewed an earlier draft of this manuscript.

Abstract: Patients with brain tumors have cognitive, emotional, and behavioral sequelae that impair their quality of life as well as the functioning of those around them. The focus of this article is a discussion of strategies and techniques aimed at improving the quality of life for patients with brain tumors and their families. Epidemiology of brain tumors, recent advances in treatment, and neurobehavioral impacts are discussed. Family coping issues unique to families of patients with brain tumors are emphasized. Assessment and intervention strategies are included with specific case examples. Nondirective, supportive interventions are recommended that model independent functioning through compensation.

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-1991-1206

Journal: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 1, no. 2, pp. 39-47, 1991