Home based neuropsychological rehabilitation in severe traumatic brain injury: a case report

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is the most common cause of death and disability in young people. The patients with TBI often suffer impairments in psycho motor speed, memory, attention, speed of information processing, executive functioning, fluid intelligence, language and visuo-spatial skills. These impairments need to be addressed as these have a significant impact on their social and occupational functioning. Neuropsychological rehabilitation has been found to be useful in improving cognitive and day to day functioning. It focuses on the improvement of basic abilities which in turn enhance cognitive functioning. The aim of the present study was to develop a home based neuropsychological rehabilitation programme and examine its usefulness in severe TBI. A single case study method was adopted. A detailed assessment was done at 1½ months (pre-assessment) and 9 months (post-intervention) to evaluate the changes. Post-intervention improvement was observed in her cognitive functions and day to day functioning. She had resumed her previous job also. Home based neuropsychological rehabilitation emerged to be useful in brain damaged patients.