As a result of COVID-19, recovery from TBI in post-TBI community members has been limited. Research on the subject is limited as well, impacting the amount of knowledge known by TBI survivors for how to best aid their recovery. Economical and technologically feasible interventions, such as telehealth services, lack adequate research as well, which could prove to be viable therapeutic avenues for the post-TBI community. Following a needs assessment at a local Atlanta non-profit serving the medically underserved in the post-TBI community, six participants were selected to participate in a six-week, individualized HEP program administered via YouTube with weekly check-ins and program grading completed as necessary to assess the effectiveness of the virtual-HEP on motor functions in the post-TBI community. Pre- and post-HEP intervention assessments were administered with OT assessments. Following the six-week intervention, five participants completed the study and demonstrated improved motor functions in balance, fine motor, strength, and overall motor function as evidenced by improvements in assessment scores. These results indicate the potential effectiveness of cost-effective, telehealth therapeutic interventions being used for increased therapy within this post-TBI population and that increased HEP prescription can improve motor functions. These improvements made indicate a greater need for advocacy in increased resources provided to this community through HEPs and familiarization in technological avenues of therapeutic intervention for both practitioners and clients, to make a positive impact in recovery post-TBI.
Devin Logan (Tue,) studied this question.