Evaluation of a 12-month lifestyle intervention by individuals with traumatic brain injury

Weight gain and inactivity are common problems for individuals living with a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Yet, interventions to support a healthy lifestyle specific to individuals with TBI are lacking. The purpose of this study was to complete a program evaluation of a 12-month evidence-based healthy lifestyle intervention adapted for people with a TBI. Eighteen participants completed a brief interview after the yearlong intervention to determine their perceptions of the program effectiveness as well as barriers and facilitators in making lifestyle changes. Participants reported staff, tracking of dietary and activity behavior, and in-person meetings as most helpful aspects. Lack of motivation and difficulty preparing healthy meals were the primary barriers to a healthy lifestyle. Qualitative data revealed five themes that influenced healthy behaviors, including (1) self-regulation, (2) environmental resources, (3) knowledge of health behaviors, (4) TBI-related impairment and comorbidities, and (5) social support. Results suggest that future iterations of the healthy lifestyle intervention should emphasize self-regulation activities; require tracking of dietary and activity behaviors across 12 months; provide concurrent support for individual motivation issues; provide prepared meals; utilize web-based, telephonic, or hybrid approaches to delivery; further simplify the curriculum and learning tools; and include caregivers and peer accountability partners. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).