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Mentoring programme for adolescent survivors of acquired brain injury
Michael Fraas1, Amanda Bellerose
1Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, USA. michael.fraas@unh.edu
Primary Objective:
To report the findings of a mentor-adolescent relationship between two survivors of acquired brain injury (ABI).
Research Design:
Case study report.
Methods And Procedures:
The adolescent, a survivor of Eastern Equine Encephalitis, was paired with an adult mentor, a survivor of a TBI. Baseline scores on the Youth Quality of Life (YQOL), Wisconsin Quality of Life Index (WQLI) and the Mayo-Portland Adaptability Index-4 (MPAI-4) were recorded.
Experimental Interventions:
The mentor provided support to the adolescent during the 10-week relationship conducted as a community-based programme for adults with acquired brain injury. In addition, both participants attended group activities that address the long-term needs of survivors of ABI. Post-programme scores were recorded on the YQOL, WQLI, MPAI-4 and a retrospective questionnaire.
Main Outcomes And Results:
The adolescent demonstrated improved quality of life on the YQOL and improved ability, adjustment and participation on the MPAI-4. The mentor demonstrated improved quality of life on the WQLI and improved adjustment and participation on the MPAI-4. Both participants indicated satisfaction with the programme on the retrospective questionnaire.
Conclusions:
The mentor programme provided enhanced quality of life and psycho-social support to both participants. The authors do caution, however, that these findings are preliminary and examination of the efficacy of such programming is ongoing.
