CONCLUSION: Research relating to cognitive-communication difficulties following TBI in older adulthood is required to support evidence-based practice and inform services for older adults who sustain TBI.
Int J Speech Lang Pathol. 2023 Mar 15:1-15. doi: 10.1080/17549507.2023.2169352. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: Limited research informs management of cognitive-communication difficulties following traumatic brain injury (TBI) in older adulthood. The purpose of this study was to understand the characteristics and practice of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) working with people who sustained TBI at ≥55 years and more specifically their management of cognitive-communication difficulties with this population. This included assessment and treatment practices, resource needs, barriers to practice, and impact to service delivery from COVID-19 restrictions.
METHOD: A cross-sectional survey-based design with non-probability sampling of SLPs working in Australia with adults with TBI was utilised. Descriptive statistics and content analysis were used for analysis of survey data.
RESULT: Fifty responses were eligible for inclusion. Participants predominantly worked in inpatient rehabilitation (48%), acute (40%), and community settings (36%). Service delivery to adults who sustained TBI at ≥55 years commonly included cognitive-communication management. Assessment and treatment trends are described. Most SLPs (74%) perceived barriers to cognitive-communication management, often relating to time and funding, that existed prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Pandemic restrictions presented additional challenges.
CONCLUSION: Research relating to cognitive-communication difficulties following TBI in older adulthood is required to support evidence-based practice and inform services for older adults who sustain TBI.
PMID:36920239 | DOI:10.1080/17549507.2023.2169352
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