THE USE OF REAL LIFE ACTIVITIES IN REHABILITATION: THE EXPERIENCE OF YOUNG MEN WITH TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURIES FROM REGIONAL, RURAL AND REMOTE AREAS IN AUSTRALIA

Objective: This study aimed to explore the experience of young men with traumatic brain injuries from regional, rural and remote areas in Australia who had participated in real life activity rehabilitation. Design: A qualitative study. The primary data collection method was a semi-structured interview. Setting: The Townsville Hospital, Queensland, and private dwellings in rural and regional areas within North Queensland. Participants: Eight male participants aged between 18-28 years. Main outcome measure(s): Key qualitative themes identified via thematic analysis of the data. Results: This research identified 3 main themes regarding the patient's perspective of a real life activity intervention. These were: perceptions of the activities used in the intervention; insight into injury; and returning to previous activities of daily living. The findings of this study highlight incorporating real life activities assisted in engaging participants in rehabilitation. Participants expressed a desire for vocational activities to be included within rehabilitation activities. Conclusion: This study has clinical implications for real life activities to be incorporated as part of rehabilitation, and that this was preferred by young male traumatic brain injury patients. Therapists may consider using individualized real life activities with similar patient cohorts in the future.