Description

After an introduction to the current theories and research findings related to brain injury rehabilitation, this text presents 20 case studies of adults who sustained severe brain damage caused by traumatic head injuries, encephalitis, stroke, hypoxia and other conditions. Problems that follow such injuries are analyzed in detail; these include loss of self-care skills, memory impairment, and language, reading, visuoperceptual and behavioral difficulties. The chapters describe the lifestyle of each individual before the onset of brain damage and the subsequent symptoms, neuropsychological assessment, rehabilitation, and long-term outcome of their condition. Most chapters include a report by the patient and/or family member, thus enhancing the reader's understanding of the predicaments faced by brain-injured individuals as they learn to cope with traumatic changes in lifestyle. Although improvement for those with severe brain injuries is slow and limited, the patients described in the book made some progress after their admission to rehabilitation services. The exhaustive analysis of each case and a step-by-step description of management will serve as an inspiring and informative guide for students, professionals and other caregivers.