Research Article  |   May 2019
Occupational Challenges in Military Service Members With Chronic Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Alison M. Cogan; Christine E. Haines; Maria D. Devore; Karla M. Lepore; Margaret Ryan
Author Affiliations
  • Alison M. Cogan, PhD, OTR/L, is Polytrauma/TBI Advanced Postdoctoral Fellow, VA Medical Center, Washington, DC; alisonc79@gmail.com. She was Doctoral Student, Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, when this work was done
Article Information
Military Rehabilitation / Neurologic Conditions / Traumatic Brain Injury / Research Articles
Research Article   |   May 2019
Occupational Challenges in Military Service Members With Chronic Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 05 2019, Vol. 73, 7303205040p1-7303205040p9. doi:10.5014/ajot.2019.027599
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 05 2019, Vol. 73, 7303205040p1-7303205040p9. doi:10.5014/ajot.2019.027599
Abstract

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to identify the needs of military service members with chronic symptoms after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) that fall within the scope of occupational therapy practice.

METHOD. In this qualitative descriptive study, service members with a history of mTBI (N = 12) participated in semistructured interviews about their injury history, symptoms, daily routines, challenges, and plans.

RESULTS. Two main themes were identified: occupational changes and plans for the future. Occupational changes contains six subthemes: (1) rest and sleep, (2) activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living, (3) work, (4) social participation, (5) play and leisure, and (6) education. Plans for the future contains three subthemes: (1) supports, (2) barriers, and (3) fears.

CONCLUSION. Occupational therapists who work with this population should consider all areas of occupation, especially sleep, during assessment and treatment planning. Some clients may require additional support for preparing for civilian life.