NeuroRehabilitation - Volume 16, issue 1

Authors: Rauch, Robert J.

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2001-16101

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 16, no. 1, pp. 1-2, 2001

Authors: Minnes, Patricia | Buell, Katherine | Nolte, Mary Lou | McColl, Mary Ann | Carlson, Peter | Johnston, Jane

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: In this study, the AIMS, a measure of community integration developed from acculturation theory, was used to explore the various ways that people with brain injuries, a smaller cultural or minority group, are involved with the larger cultural group and to evaluate rehabilitation outcome (i.e., reintegration into the community). Specifically, the AIMS assesses whether the needs of individuals with brain injuries in a number of areas are identified and supported in a way that supports community participation. In addition, the opinions of persons with a brain injury regarding their level of community integration were compared to the opinions of individuals …who knew them well. The results of this study indicate that while a large proportion of the participants with brain injuries were integrated in traditional areas of service delivery such as medical services, housing and social activity, their disability-related needs were not being identified and supported adequately in the areas of spirituality and productive activity. Show more

Keywords: brain injury, community integration, acculturation

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2001-16102

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 16, no. 1, pp. 3-10, 2001

Authors: Rauch, Robert J. | Ferry, Susan M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The social network and social support needs of people following traumatic brain injury (TBI) are considerable and related to both health outcomes and community integration. We review what is known of the structure of social networks following TBI and explore the relationship of these networks to social support and health. Social network interventions in TBI are described and discussed. Empirically based suggestions are given for the development of interventions based on culturally sensitive programmes which develop social networks and support in a naturalistic manner.

Keywords: TBI, social networks, social support, rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2001-16103

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 16, no. 1, pp. 11-16, 2001

Authors: Vander Laan, Rika | Brandys, Clare | Sullivan, Irene | Lemsky, Carolyn

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Integration of systems of service for individuals who have sustained a brain injury (BI) is critical to their successful recovery and reintegration into the community [6,7,33]. The Toronto Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Network, an umbrella organization of 17 partners in the city of Toronto, Canada, is attempting to create a cost-effective, seamless, efficient, and effective integrated system of service. The ABI Network includes organizations and agencies along the full continuum, from acute care inpatient to long term care reintegration and is ultimately focused on helping clients achieve their goals. Through a variety of projects and activities, progress is being made. …A significant initiative, currently underway, is the development of Network-wide best practices, related to assessment and outcomes, rooted in empirical evidence and current research. The project also integrates the perspectives of clients and families. The hope is that this initiative will result in enhanced consistency across programs, ensuring universal access to treatment and interventions following brain injury from the time of an individual's injury through integration into the community. Show more

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2001-16104

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 16, no. 1, pp. 17-26, 2001

Authors: Jackson, H. | Manchester, D.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Brain injury presents a hugely complex, and sometimes daunting arena for the rehabilitation professional. With disruption to a person's core sense of self being almost the sine qua non of brain injury, rehabilitation can cover physical, psychological, social, philosophical and psychiatric realms. Those with brain injury can also be amongst the most vulnerable people in our society. Their rehabilitation has profound implications socio-politically, both in how we seek to understand disturbance in others, and also how we strive to ameliorate it. Whilst both theory and practice have grown exponentially over the last two decades, there is still no formal training …or qualification within the brain injury rehabilitation field. This paper discusses the need for such formal training at both a theoretical and practical level not only for clinicians but also for front line staff, families and primary care services. The difficulties inherent in providing co-ordinated and structured training in such a complex area are discussed, and finally a model that attempts to meet user needs is outlined. Show more

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2001-16105

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 16, no. 1, pp. 27-40, 2001

Authors: Kolakowsky-Hayner, Stephanie A. | Kreutzer, Jeffrey S.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: For many, returning to work after a brain injury is an extremely difficult task. Many factors influence a person's decision whether or not to work. While some people with brain injury are excited to return to their old jobs, others are afraid of the physical, emotional, and financial consequences of returning to work, and some just do not want to work at all. The following manuscript provides a framework for persons with brain injury to address concerns regarding returning to work and alternatives to living productively. There are a number of ideas discussed within the framework of a self-guided therapeutic …return to work program. Clinicians are encouraged to use the information provided to facilitate return to work discussions with their clients with brain injury and to adapt as necessary for use with persons with other neurological disabilities. Show more

Keywords: rehabilitation, neurological disorders, brain injury, return to work

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2001-16106

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 16, no. 1, pp. 41-47, 2001

Authors: Savage, Ronald C. | Pearson, Sue | McDonald, Helen | Potoczny-Gray, Andrea | Marchese, Nina

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Medical and rehabilitation systems care for children who sustain brain injuries. Their much needed services, however, are short in comparison with the long term needs of these children and their families. For the most part, it is schools and families who provide the long term supports to help children make the best outcomes and create a better quality of life. Professionals and families who develop collaborative models find that they can more effectively manage services for these children by carefully crafting Individual Education Plans (IEP's). Through the IEP process students' complex needs; the multiple transitions they experience; and their long …term needs can be met. Show more

Keywords: brain injury, pediatrics, children, special education, Individual Education Plan, family systems

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2001-16107

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 16, no. 1, pp. 49-58, 2001

Authors: Tyerman, Andy | Booth, Jean

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) often exerts a major impact upon the family with high levels of stress and distress, particularly amongst primary carers, disruption to family life style and functioning, changes in family roles, and marital and sexual difficulties. In response to the documented impact upon the family a range of family services have been advocated including family education, counselling and support. This paper outlines family services developed within a community head injury service in the UK. The family assessment programme comprises a relatives' screening questionnaire and structured interview schedules and ratings scales, some drawn from the family assessment literature, …others developed within the service. Four components of family intervention are described: an annual series of educational workshops; follow-up workshops; individual family support; and specialist marital counselling. Our experience of providing these family services over the last 7 years is discussed along with the need for further evaluation of family assessment and interventions after TBI. Show more

Keywords: TBI, family assessment, family education, family interventions

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2001-16108

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 16, no. 1, pp. 59-66, 2001