Does Cognitive Rehabilitation Demonstrate Benefits in the Group Setting With People Whom Have Experienced Brain Injury?

Does Cognitive Rehabilitation Demonstrate Benefits in the Group Setting With People Whom Have Experienced Brain Injury?

Nicloe Holzworth, OTR/L, Bergequist, Thomas, Ph.D., Brown, Allen, M.D., Sue Lepore, OTR/L, Walter Stobaugh. LICSW

The purpose of this study is to determine whether there is benefit from providing cognitive rehabilitation in the group setting. Several standardized tools will be used to measure progress when a participant enters the group, leaves the group and at a one year follow-up.

This research study will look at the outcome benefits of providing cognitive rehabilitation, utilizing the group process. Criteria for selecting the appropriate participants, group format and structure, as well as use of standardized assessments. The assessments used: Three Step Calendar Approach, (Sohlberg and Mateer) Satisfaction With Life scale (SWLS), Community Integration Questionnaire (CIQ), Independent Living Scale, and the Vocational Independence Scale. The group setting provides an atmosphere to work on building communication skills through peer feedback and to develop psychological coping strategies. Techniques such as the problem solving format and a calendar system. Analysis and outcomes of 17 past group participants were analyzed supporting cognitive rehabilitation in the group setting. Of the 20 participants, 3 chose not to be included.

Inclusion Criteria: All participants involved in the Cognitive Rehabilitation Outpatient Group within the study time frame are eligible to be in the study.