NeuroRehabilitation - Volume 23, issue 4

Authors: Fenech, Anne

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2008-23401

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 23, no. 4, pp. 295-297, 2008

Authors: Creek, Jennifer

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Creativity is a human characteristic that enables people and communities to adapt and thrive in changing circumstances. People spend the greater part of their lives engaging in a variety of activities that support health and well-being. Creativity can be expressed through many of the activities of everyday life, including work, family life, social interaction and leisure. When someone is unable to access a healthy range of activities, due to illness, disability or other circumstances, he will seek alternative ways of meeting his needs. For example, if a man is unable to work because of illness, he may choose to use …his leisure time to express his creativity. Creative leisure activities can become an important part of an individual's strategies for coping with illness or disability; through promoting adaptation, creating meaningful goals and providing distraction from pain and anxiety. If a person finds it difficult to engage in creative leisure activities, due to illness or disability, it may be necessary to provide practical support or to stimulate the individual's own creative development. Show more

Keywords: Creativity, leisure, disability

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2008-23402

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 23, no. 4, pp. 299-304, 2008

Authors: Magee, Wendy L. | Bowen, Ceri

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Acquired and complex disabilities stemming from severe brain damage and neurological illness usually affect communication, cognitive, physical or sensory abilities in any combination. Improved understanding of the care needs of people with complex disabilities has addressed many functional aspects of care. However, relatives and carers can be left at a loss knowing how to provide or share in meaningful activities with someone who can no longer communicate or respond to their environment. As a result, the individual with complex needs can become increasingly isolated from their previous support network. Based on theoretical foundations for music as instinctive in …human beings, this paper offers practical recommendations for the creative use of music for people with complex physical and sensory needs which prevent active participation in previous leisure pursuits. Recommendations are made for relatives and carers to manage the environment of an individual who has limited capacity to control their environment or make choices about leisure activities. Particular emphasis is given to activities which can be shared between a facilitator and the patient, thereby enhancing social relationships. Show more

Keywords: Music, leisure, carers, complex disability, families, neuropalliative

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2008-23403

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 23, no. 4, pp. 305-311, 2008

Authors: Blacker, Danielle | Broadhurst, Liz | Teixeira, Liliana

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This article looks at the importance of leisure as a key principle within occupational therapy practice. A review of current literature and two in-patient case studies are used to discuss the role of the Occupational Therapist in adapting leisure occupations for individuals with complex neurological disability. The article highlights the use of leisure as an occupation through which therapeutic goals can be achieved. Goals should underpin leisure, enabling an individual to participate in their chosen leisure occupations. It is recognised that there is importance in using a client-centred approach to ensure that meaningful occupations are used and that the occupation …fits the needs of the individual and not the other way around. Working in this way, there is a benefit to individuals, assisting them to cope with loss and the onset of disability and also preventing occupational deprivation. Show more

Keywords: Occupational therapy, leisure, occupation, occupational deprivation, adaptation, client-centred practice

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2008-23404

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 23, no. 4, pp. 313-319, 2008

Authors: Kleiber, Douglas A. | Reel, Heather A. | Hutchinson, Susan L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Previous research has suggested that leisure assists in coping with and adjusting to negative life events in at least four different ways: by being diverting, by generating hope, by restoring some aspects of self, and by affording a context for personal transformation. An assault to the brain, whether due to a stroke, chronic disease, injury or trauma, would be such an event and would likely by served by leisure in the same way. This paper reviews the supporting evidence regarding the value and utility of leisure in coping with and adjusting to living with a disability. The concept of posttraumatic …growth is then examined and related research is reviewed with particular attention to the relevance of leisure. Finally, considerations are offered for incorporating leisure as an aspect of treatment and care for those working in neurorehabilitation settings. Show more

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2008-23405

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 23, no. 4, pp. 321-328, 2008

Authors: Malley, Donna | Cooper, Jacqui | Cope, Joanna

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Adapting leisure activities is sometimes required for adults with neuropsychological deficits following acquired brain injury. Such adaptations are illustrated through a brief review of relevant literature and case vignettes describing both group-based and individual intervention provided within a holistic milieu-oriented neuropsychological rehabilitation programme. Particular emphasis is placed on the impact of cognitive deficits on a person's ability to engage in their desired activities. The personal meaning and psychological adjustment to injury is considered a crucial factor when considering adapting activity. The article will conclude with implications for clinical practice in other settings.

Keywords: Brain injury, leisure, cognitive strategies, group, neuropsychological, rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2008-23406

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 23, no. 4, pp. 329-334, 2008

Authors: Stebbins, Robert A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Leisure as a tool for rehabilitating people with neuro-disabilities is well established. Yet, despite significant progress in this area, problems remain in the way leisure is used for this purpose. One, as yet, unresolved problem is how to determine which leisure activity or activities will be attractive to people with particular disabilities. Another is how to counteract the persistent, dominant public view that real personal worth is measured according to the work people do rather than the leisure they pursue. The third is to inform practitioners, many of whom are unaware of recent advances in leisure theory, about these advances, …which can help them solve the first problem and adapt to the second. The main body of this paper presents such a theory – the serious leisure perspective. It synthesizes three main forms of leisure, showing, at once, their distinctive features, similarities, and interrelationships. The forms are serious, casual, and project-based leisure. A review of the research on neuro-rehabilitation follows. Some implications of the Perspective for neuro-rehabilitation are then presented, including ways practitioners can introduce clients to certain types of leisure, encourage them to pursue the types chosen, and help them develop an optimal leisure lifestyle. Show more

Keywords: Serious leisure, disability, rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2008-23407

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 23, no. 4, pp. 335-341, 2008

Authors: Bache, Jane | Derwent, Gary

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Advances in computer technology and the Internet have meant that more and more occupations can be made available to disabled individuals, including occupations generally considered to be leisure. However, computers and the Internet also provide barriers to access for these individuals. This article discusses some of these barriers, solutions to them and highlights the complexities involved in the provision of a computer-based assistive technology solution for access to leisure for a profoundly disabled young lady. It also points out the need for the input of a highly skilled, multi-disciplinary team in the assessment for and provision of such a system.

Keywords: Assistive technology, leisure, complex disabilities

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2008-23408

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 23, no. 4, pp. 343-350, 2008

Authors: Stonier, Claire L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Caregiving for long-term conditions is increasingly focused on holistic “person centred” care [9,34], with leisure and recreation providing an important and essential part of maintaining quality of life. This article documents examples of large leisure events and creative projects. These were adapted for, and considered to be suitable and supportive of, the needs of adults with complex and profound disability as a result of neurological damage or disease. The ways in which events have been tailored by the Recreation and Leisure Service, incorporating sensory elements with the view to increased accessibility and enjoyment for participants, are highlighted in this article. …The ultimate challenge faced was programming events to suit more than 170 people aged over 18 who each have particular preferences, varied interests and abilities including the most profound physical and cognitive impairments. These developments and changes in format have encouraged essential input from participants themselves and their families and carers, whilst involving the wider community; volunteers, external charitable groups and professional organisations. Show more

Keywords: Events, creativity, multi-sensory, interactive, engaging, involving, inclusivity, accessibility, communitas

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2008-23409

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 23, no. 4, pp. 351-359, 2008

Authors: Collier, Lesley | Truman, Juliette

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The problems experienced by people with neurological disabilities create barriers to participation in leisure activities. Particular common features include cognitive deficits (attention, executive functioning, language and memory), functional difficulties (in activities of daily living), psychomotor impairment (dyspraxia and poor co-ordination), and behavioural difficulties (aggression, agitation, and wandering). The Multi-sensory environment (MSE) has the potential to accommodate some of these problems experienced by people with neurological disabilities and, as such, is a valuable leisure resource. Multi-sensory activity can address individual sensory needs, such as offering a stronger stimulus if initial attempts are unnoticed, and be offered alongside familiar activities and routines …to enhance sensory awareness. If the complexity of the activity, individual needs, and MSE demands are matched, engagement in this activity may be achieved. The Pool Activity Level Occupational Profiling Tool can provide a protocol from which MSE activity may be facilitated. By using this tool the MSE fits well within the World Health Organisation International Classification of functioning, Disability and Health by facilitating participation and reducing environmental barriers. Show more

Keywords: Multi-sensory environment, Snoezelen, leisure activity, participation, recreation, relaxation

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2008-23410

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 23, no. 4, pp. 361-367, 2008

Authors: Fenech, Anne | Baker, Mark

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This case report describes the leisure lifestyle of two individuals with neuropalliative conditions who expressed themselves satisfied with their use of leisure time and whose leisure occupations were based around sensory stimulation to each of the five senses, proprioception and vestibular stimulation in turn. It evaluates the concept of leisure as a means of giving a meaning to life and therefore increasing quality of life, suggests greater use of the existing sensory diet framework in the domain of neuropalliative conditions and proposes a direction for future research in order to provide casual leisure opportunities for individuals with severe cognitive dysfunction …in order to improve their quality of life. Show more

Keywords: Neurological disability, locked in syndrome, Huntington's disease, leisure, sensory diet, casual leisure

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2008-23411

Citation: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 23, no. 4, pp. 369-376, 2008