Traumatic Brain Injury and Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA)
In veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and cerebrovascular accident (CVA), OT can:
- • Evaluate the individual’s performance abilities and the demands of the activity
- • Help clients relearn ADLs and IADLs or teach them compensatory strategies
- • Evaluate and treat individuals in real-life settings
- • Use task analysis, environmental modifications, functional activities, maximize community independence
- • Teach community reintegration skills which can include:
- • Teach clients memory compensation techniques such as daily planners, technological devices, checklists, and cueing systems
- • Help clients develop effective schedules and routines
- • Instruct clients and family members in techniques to cope with changes in behavior and low frustration tolerance
- • Recommend environmental adaptations such as labeling cupboards and drawers or using lighting to improve vision and/or attention
- • Help clients re-learn social skills through by anticipating challenging social situations and practicing appropriate responses
- • Provide cognitive retraining exercises to address specific cognitive skills, such as attention, memory, and executive functioning using computer-based programs
- • Assist clients in developing compensatory techniques for instrumental activities of daily living, such as preparing meals, shopping, and caring for children
- • Help clients who may not be able to return to work identify and develop of healthy hobbies or leisure activities
- • Consult with employers and educational systems to adapt the work or school environment to facilitate the individual’s performance