Graduation Year
2024
Document Type
Capstone Project
Project Type
Qualitative Study
Degree Name
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
Program
Occupational Therapy
Program Chair
Gina Tucker-Roghi
Faculty Advisor
Laura Greiss Hess, PhD, OTR/L
Abstract
Background: Acquired brain injuries (ABI) is an umbrella term for mild to severe injuries of the brain with different etiologies. For our study, we focused on family members that have experienced traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or a non-traumatic brain injury (NTBI) (Oyesanya, 2017). Current practice revolves around traditional medical and rehabilitation models that provide services and interventions for brain injury survivors (BIS), typically within the first year post-injury. However, brain injury can have lifelong occupational engagement impacts. There is limited research focused on the brain injury survivor’s (BIS) return to home, work, and community, and the impact on family life over time.
Purpose: The purpose of this research was to understand the lived experiences of the family members of brain injury survivors (BIS). This research was informed by our collaboration with the brain injury community, specifically with the ABI Program at Coastline Community College (CCC) and Michelle Wild, founder of BEST Connections© (Brain Education, Strategies and Technology, 2022). Our research questions were: (1) What are the lived experiences of BIS family members after the conclusion of typical rehab supports once they return to their homes, jobs and communities? (2) How can the examination of these phenomena better inform occupation centered client and family care as well as interprofessional collaboration for service to this community?
Methods: Qualitative methods using semi-structured interviews. Convenience sampling through Coastline Community College, ABI program. Thematic coding via the constant comparison method and interrater reliability were established to 100% agreement consensus coding across the full research team.
Results: We analyzed transcripts from 5 BIS family members. Results indicated five themes that described the lived experiences of BIS family members: (1) Medical Model - Limitations in Current Practice, (2) Changes in BIS - Perspective of the Family Member, (3) Social Change - Changes in Occupations, Habits, and Routines, (4) Family Roles - Adaptations and Navigating New Roles, and the overarching theme of (5) Family New Normal.
Implications for OT: Occupational Therapy as a profession is client and family centered and this research provided necessary and missing family-centered evidence. This research is a call to action in the OT community for community service supports beyond traditional rehabilitation models as life after brain injury can feel invisible with lifelong implications.
IRB Number
11046
Comments
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