The rehabilitation of intellectual impairment resulting from brain injury has become a major professional activity of clinical neuropsychologists. In recent years, neuropsychology has developed from a professional role stressing assessment and diagnosis to one that now includes treatment and rehabilitation activities. Such trends are also manifested in two new research interests of neuropsychologists: the study of the generalizability of neuropsychological test findings to everyday abilities, often referred to as the "ecological validity" of tests, and outcome studies of cognitive retraining treatments. Discovering the relationships between traditional neuropsychological tests and everyday behavior is important because the referral questions posed to neuropsychologists have changed. Now, the neuropsychologist is asked to comment on the patient's functional intellectual abilities as they relate to the everyday demands of home, work and educational settings. Of course, the development of cognitive retraining theory and procedures allows neuropsychologists to intervene in the treatment of the cognitive problems that the neuropsychological evaluation has documented. Since these approaches are still in their formative stages, they have been the subject of clinical lore, great controversy and little systematic research. This situation prompted one of our presenters to lament, "Either you believe Cognitive Retraining is divinly inspired, or the work of the devil. " There is apparently little middle ground. Given this state of affairs, the program committee of the Mid-South Conference on Human Neuropsychology decided to focus on the role of neuropsychologists in rehabilitation.

"In this book, some of the leading clinicians and cognitive neuroscientists consider the effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation. They situate the issues within an overall context that considers the different types and levels of diagnosis and assessment, the adequacy of underlying cognitive theory for rehabilitation, and more importantly, the clinical effectiveness of current treatments to improve functional recovery. By employing an evidence-based approach that critically evaluates the published literature, the book provides for a better understanding of the strengths and limitations of the cognitive approach and hopefully a more realistic expectation of its outcome for patients with neurological deficits." "The book will serve as a valuable source for a wide spectrum of professionals who deal with the neuropsychological and neurological effects of brain damage."--BOOK JACKET.

A professional guide to evidence-based pediatric cognitive rehabilitation in neurological disorders with practical intervention guidance.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) may affect 10 million people worldwide. It is considered the "signature wound" of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. These injuries result from a bump or blow to the head, or from external forces that cause the brain to move within the head, such as whiplash or exposure to blasts. TBI can cause an array of physical and mental health concerns and is a growing problem, particularly among soldiers and veterans because of repeated exposure to violent environments. One form of treatment for TBI is cognitive rehabilitation therapy (CRT), a patient-specific, goal-oriented approach to help patients increase their ability to process and interpret information. The Department of Defense asked the IOM to conduct a study to determine the effectiveness of CRT for treatment of TBI.

Patients with brain tumor-related epilepsy (BTRE) suffer from two serious pathologies simultaneously – a brain tumor and a secondary form of epilepsy. Although there has been remarkable progress in BTRE research in recent years, it remains an on-going challenge for clinicians and continues to stimulate much debate in the scientific community. This volume is the first to be completely dedicated to BTRE, and in doing so it explores issues faced by the health care team as well as some of the novel and promising directions that future research may take. Epilepsy and Brain Tumors is not only a complete reference on BTRE but also a practical guide based on clinical experiences, with a comprehensive collection of presentations from international experts who share some of the latest discoveries and their approaches to tackling a wide range of difficult and complex issues. - Includes coverage of epidemiology, pathology and treatment of both primary and metastatic brain tumors - Offers additional insight into supportive care, incidence in children, focal epileptogenesis, clinical evaluation, antiepileptic drugs, surgical treatment, cognitive rehabilitation, and more - Chapters authored and edited by leaders in the field around the globe – the broadest, most expert coverage available

Sohlberg and Mateer's landmark introductory text helped put cognitive rehabilitation on the map for a generation of clinicians, researchers, educators, and students. The second edition reflects advances in neuroscience and computer technology, coupled with changes in service delivery models. The authors describe a broad range of clinical interventions for assisting persons with acquired cognitive impairments--including deficits in attention, memory, executive functions, and communication--and for managing associated emotional and behavioral issues. For each approach, theoretical underpinnings are reviewed in depth and clinical protocols delineated. Difficult concepts are explained in a clear, straightforward fashion, with realistic case examples bringing the material to life. Also included are samples of relevant assessment instruments, rating scales, and patient handouts. Throughout, the volume emphasizes the need to work from a community perspective, providing a framework for forming collaborative partnerships with families and caregivers. It is an essential resource for professionals across a wide variety of rehabilitation specialties.

Rehabilitation helps individuals maintain and optimize independence. Historically, people with dementia have received little rehabilitation and the focus has been on care to replace lost function. Dementia Rehabilitation is a resource for health and social professionals, service planners, policy makers, and academics. The book makes a compelling case for rehabilitation for people with dementia, including the views of people with dementia and the research evidence. For each area of function, the research evidence and relevant theory is summarized, followed by practical information on clinical assessment, and delivery of therapies. Identifies rehabilitation as a human right for people with dementia. Reviews functions affected by dementia, including cognition, communication, and physical function. Outlines evidence-based strategies to maintain function and to delay decline. Describes how to maintain activities of daily living and leisure activities. Includes techniques to maintain self-identity and mood. Recognizes the importance of environment and care partners in supporting rehabilitation. Summarizes models of care for rehabilitation.