Towards a better understanding of the impact of the sequelae of TBI on the social participation of seniors

Abstract

CC By 068Citation: Levert AbstractBackground: The multiple sequelae caused by traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can considerably reduce the ability of seniors to resume their activities of daily living and their leisure activities, and to return to meaningful relationships so they can participate in the life of their community. Purpose of the study:This article aims to put forward the perceptions of older participants about the sequelae they themselves identify as consecutive, short or medium long term, with their TBI and consequently, the limitations they experienced in terms of their social participation. Results:The fi ndings reveal a correspondence between the multiple sequelae of the TBI identifi ed by the participants and those documented in the scientifi c writings. These sequelae could be grouped according to the limitations found in the operational framework's three spheres of activities related to social participation: those that promotes self-realization through an autonomous and independent everyday life; through pastimes and leisure activities; and through relationships with others. Main fi ndings:The fi ndings are innovative compared with what is generally described in the scientifi c literature, since existing studies offer few concrete examples of the limitations encountered in terms of social participation due to sequelae following a TBI. Four sequelae namely memory loss, loss of balance, lack of motivation or apathy and fatigue, appear to have many impacts on a variety of activities which could explain their signifi cance for participants. Conclusion:The fi ndings pave the way for new research avenues that focus on analyzing social participation opportunities of older adults by reinforcing their capacities. Potential implications:Results provide benchmark for health care and social services professionals for the mobilization of most effective resources and services to help seniors to engage in rewarding, meaningful social participation activities.

Towards a better understanding of the impact of the sequelae of TBI on the social participation of seniors

“…volunteering) or informal ones, either because they had diffi culty following conversations in groups due to memory loss or increased sensitivity to noise, or because they were embarrassed when they exhibited uncontrollable aggressive or inappropriate behaviors in social situations. This is of concern given that being engaged in satisfactory interpersonal relationships is viewed as a powerful indicator of social participation [6,19,51,52], whether these relationships take place in the privacy of the home, in the neighborhood, during sport or leisure activities, or through an involvement in the community [6]. The living environment, including family, is in this regard recognized as providing positive support to people with a TBI [19,[53][54][55].…”

“…This calls for the implementation of public policies promoting cohesive, adapted environments, and programs or interventions focused on optimizing active aging and social participation [2][3][4][5]. Highly valued by seniors [6], social participation is considered a protection factor for mental health and cognitive functioning, and contributes to maintaining social skills and quality of life [4,5,7,8]. It is defi ned as the optimal involvement of individuals in meaningful activities that provide opportunities for them to thrive in their daily lives, leisure activities and social interactions [4,9,10].…”