Eric, a 29-year-old man, sustained a traumatic brain injury(TBI) in a road traffic accident at 25. While his physical rehabilitation is complete, Eric faces ongoing cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial challenges.
Jac Mckenna
May 18, 2022
Eric, a 29-year-old man, sustained a traumatic brain injury(TBI) in a road traffic accident at 25. While his physical rehabilitation is complete, Eric faces ongoing cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial challenges. A humanistic, client-centered approach was adopted to engage Eric actively in his rehabilitation, aiming to empower him to thrive in daily life.
Assessment findings indicated issues with executive functioning, short-term memory impairment, cognitive fatigue, and challenges with emotional regulation. Eric also struggled
with anxiety, negative self-talk, and limited coping skills, which impacted his ability to manage routines, personal safety, and independence, particularly in the kitchen.
In collaboration with Eric, specific occupational therapy goals were identified, including improving occupational functioning in the home, managing anxiety and mood, and
enhancing cognitive recovery. Interventions included memory training with visual cues, managing fatigue through energy conservation techniques, and supporting participation in meaningful activities. Cognitive-behavioural strategies were used to challenge negative thinking and improve emotional regulation.
Through consistent, individualised interventions, Eric made significant progress in managing his daily routines, reducing anxiety, improving cognitive function, and increasing his
participation in meaningful activities. These improvements supported his overall occupational engagement and well-being.
This case underscores the importance of an integrated, holistic approach to rehabilitation, addressing physical, cognitive, and emotional needs. By empowering Eric to engage in his own recovery, the rehabilitation process enhanced his quality of life and helped him regain independence and purpose in his daily activities.
By Jac Mckenna
Clinical Specialist Occupational Therapist
(Psychological Health), Neurologic Linguistic
Rehabilitation for Independence
