Domiciliary therapy during inpatient rehabilitation treatment for patients with an acquired brain injury: a preliminary study

The objective was to assess the feasibility of additional domiciliary treatment for patients with an acquired brain injury while they are still inpatients at a rehabilitation centre. This cohort study included 22 patients with an acquired brain injury (mainly stroke) and with moderate to severe neuropsychological deficits. After two observational home visits for goal setting to determine the aim of the treatment, domiciliary treatment was given once a week in addition to the therapy at the rehabilitation centre. The number of home visits depended on the time interval between admission and time of inclusion in the study. The main outcome measures were (1) a semi-structured interview with patients and partners or children, (2) a questionnaire filled in by the attending therapist(s) before and after each therapeutic home visit and (3) the functional level of the patient. All but one of the patients and all partners and therapists were satisfied with the domiciliary treatment. Most of the main goals were attained during the treatment. The main goals during the domiciliary treatment were in the domains of domestic activities and leisure. A 90-120 min duration of the treatment sessions seems most feasible. It was concluded that domiciliary treatment for inpatients is feasible and seems useful for patients with moderate to severe cognitive impairments

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