Adults with traumatic brain injury: three case studies of cognitive rehabilitation in the home setting

This article discusses the use of occupational therapy in the home setting and the individual application of treatment methods. Three case studies are presented that involve adults with acquired brain injury with memory deficits. The treatment methods used were (a) saturational cuing with behavioral chaining and positive reinforcement, (b) a coordinated team approach incorporating family or significant others and other therapists, and (c) environmental adaptations. A decision-making model and the dynamic assessment approach were used as a framework for treatment planning. The treatment technique chosen depended on the skill to be learned and the patient's learning style. Each case required the selection of environmental adaptations including (a) use of family and attendants as cotherapists; (b) a tape-recorded message, played daily; and (c) an appointment book for daily things to do. Each case demonstrated prolonged therapy for skill acquisition with this patient population.