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The Los Angeles Head Injury Survey: procedures and initial findings.
1Neuropsychiatric Institute, University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center 90073.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|June 1, 1988
Summary
Long-term needs for individuals with severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are extensive, impacting daily living skills, employment, and education. Families often provide care without adequate support, facing ongoing challenges years after the initial injury.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI) result in long-term functional deficits.
- Understanding the evolving needs of TBI survivors and their families is crucial for effective care.
- Existing support systems may not adequately address the persistent challenges faced by TBI survivors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the long-term functional needs of individuals with severe TBI.
- To assess the impact of TBI on survivors' ability to engage in productive and self-sufficient living.
- To understand the role and challenges of families in providing long-term care for TBI survivors.
Main Methods:
- Contacted approximately 1,700 families of TBI survivors in the Los Angeles area.
- Randomly selected 142 families for in-depth interviews.
- Developed and utilized a comprehensive instrument with over 700 questions to assess functional skills.
Main Results:
- Survivors exhibit a wide range of deficits and unmet needs across various functional domains.
- Recovery trajectories vary significantly among individuals, with persistent deficits noted across all assessed areas.
- Most survivors are dependent on family for daily living, finances, and services, and do not engage in work or school.
Conclusions:
- Families frequently assume primary responsibility for long-term TBI survivor care without formal training.
- The lack of available programs places a significant burden on families, impacting their well-being.
- Traumatic brain injuries have lasting adverse effects on both survivors and their families, underscoring the need for comprehensive, long-term support services.