Older adults and neuropsychological rehabilitation following acquired brain injury

The literature related to neurorehabilitation methods specific to older adults is now emerging, the timing of which is important given the epidemiology of acquired brain injury in this population. Examined are epidemiological characteristics of acquired brain injury, with a focus on traumatic brain injury and stroke. Principles of geriatric neurorehabilitation are proposed by using a Neo-Lurian framework, and employing the PASS model of brain-behavior relationship forwarded by J. P. Das. Discussed are specific issues and strategies of geriatric neurorehabilitation by removing excess disability that complicates acquired brain injury. These include addressing depression, sleep disturbance, chronic pain, and social support. Restorative interventions may now also appear as a part of geriatric neurorehabilitation practices. A focus on team functioning as a critical contributor to functional outcomes in those older adults with acquired brain injury is presented along with future directions that capitalize upon the ideals of primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention.