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Published on: January 20, 2023
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The Perceived Meaning of Traumatic Brain Injury for Older Adults: A Longitudinal-Multiple Case Study
Wonkyung Jung1, Mia Vogel2, Karl Cristie F Figuracion3
1RESILIENCE Center, School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
Summary
Older adults
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Psychology
Background:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI) significantly impacts older adults.
- Understanding the subjective experience of TBI is crucial for effective care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the evolving meaning of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in older adults during the first year post-injury.
- To identify changes in TBI perception over time.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal multiple-case study design.
- Semistructured interviews conducted at multiple time points (1 week to 12 months post-TBI).
- Inductive thematic analysis of interview transcripts.
Main Results:
- Four key themes emerged: gratitude, vulnerability/dependence, cautiousness, and life reflection.
- Most participants maintained consistent positive or negative perceptions of their TBI throughout the year.
- 12 participants completed 55 interviews.
Conclusions:
- Positive illness perceptions can enhance quality of life for older adults post-TBI.
- Supportive interventions and resources are vital for managing negative perceptions and fostering resilience.
- This study provides a foundation for developing tailored support for older adults after TBI.
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