Research Article
Issue Date: May/June 2016
Published Online: April 18, 2016
Updated: April 30, 2020
Effectiveness of Interventions to Improve Occupational Performance for People With Psychosocial, Behavioral, and Emotional Impairments After Brain Injury: A Systematic Review
Steven Wheeler; Amanda Acord-Vira; Diana Davis
Author Affiliations
  • Steven Wheeler, PhD, OTR/L, CBIS, is Associate Professor and Associate Chair, Division of Occupational Therapy, Department of Human Performance and Applied Exercise Science, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown; swheeler@hsc.wvu.edu
  • Amanda Acord-Vira, MOT, OTR/L, CBIS, is Assistant Professor, Division of Occupational Therapy, Department of Human Performance and Applied Exercise Science, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown
  • Diana Davis, PhD, OTR/L, is Assistant Professor, Division of Occupational Therapy, Department of Human Performance and Applied Exercise Science, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown
Article Information
Evidence-Based Practice / Mental Health / Neurologic Conditions / Traumatic Brain Injury / Special Issue: Evidence Review
Research Article   |   April 18, 2016
Effectiveness of Interventions to Improve Occupational Performance for People With Psychosocial, Behavioral, and Emotional Impairments After Brain Injury: A Systematic Review
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, April 2016, Vol. 70, 7003180060. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.115.020677
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, April 2016, Vol. 70, 7003180060. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.115.020677
Abstract

OBJECTIVE. This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of interventions to improve occupational performance for people with psychosocial, behavioral, or emotional impairments after traumatic brain injury (TBI).

METHOD. Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, OTseeker, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched. Of the 1,512 articles initially identified, 35 met the inclusion criteria.

RESULTS. Six types of interventions were identified: (1) education, (2) peer mentoring, (3) goal-directed therapy, (4) physical activity, (5) skills training, and (6) cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT). Strong evidence from well-conducted research supports the use of CBT in individual and group settings. Moderate evidence supports goal-directed interventions, aquatic exercise, and functional skills training. Limited evidence supports peer mentoring, aerobic exercise, educational interventions, and various skills training.

CONCLUSION. An increasing body of evidence supports specific interventions to improve occupational performance and participation for people with psychosocial, behavioral, or emotional impairments after TBI.