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[Housing and work outcomes one year after severe brain injury. An interview-based follow-up study]
Jakob Udby Blicher1, Carsten Bugtrup Jensen, Jette Westh
1Forskningsenheden, Hammel Neurocenter, Hammel. neujbl@sc.aaa.dk
Introduction:
Housing and employment after severe brain injury can be applied as an estimation of functional outcome. Using these parameters we studied a Danish population who received intensive neurorehabilitation one year after brain injury.
Materials And Methods:
All patients admitted to the Neurorehabilitation Centre in Western Denmark for severe brain injury during the period 1st July 02-31st December 03 were asked to participate in a follow-up study. Out of 165 patients, 153 accepted participation. Aetiologies were traumatic brain injury (TBI) (63), subarachnoid haemorrhage (42), stroke (25) and other disorders (23). Housing and employment were categorized after interviews at follow-up. Following logistic regression analysis determinants for independent housing were studied.
Results:
Approximately 5% were back at work or continued their education and 31% were still on sick leave. 52% lived independently. Short admittance in the primary ward and a high functional level at the start of rehabilitation were associated with independent living. Patients with brain injury due to mixed aetiologies, including anoxic or metabolic disturbances, showed impaired capability of independent living compared to patients with TBI. Age was not associated with housing.
Conclusion:
Return to work is not a realistic goal for rehabilitation one year after severe brain injury, whereas living independently can be achieved by approximately half of the patients. The condition, however, seems complex and in several cases appears dependent on support from relatives and other caretakers.
