RESEARCH

Nature-Based Rehabilitation for Adults with Acquired Brain Injury: A Scoping Review

The study concluded that NBR can benefit adults with acquired brain injury by addressing various holistic aspects of their recovery. The results suggest that incorporating natural environments into rehabilitation can significantly improve their well-being.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Dementia/Traumatic & Acquired Brain Injuries, Rehabilitation

Setting or Context: Hospitals/Clinics, Natural Areas/Parks/Forest

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Cognitive Function, Sensory Stimulation, Improved Physical Health, Increased Self-Efficacy, Improved Quality of Life

Allied Profession Intersections: Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Forest/Natural Area Immersion

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Metrics for Physical Health, Patient-Reported Outcomes

Access: Paid

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Summary

This research paper explores how nature-based rehabilitation (NBR) can help adults who have suffered an acquired brain injury (ABI). The study followed a structured approach, identified relevant studies, and selected those that matched the inclusion criteria. The research aimed to understand whether NBR could reduce the physical, psychological, and emotional effects of ABI. The process involved rigorous screening and selection of studies, resulting in a focused examination of the benefits of NBR for this group.

The findings showed that out of the initial 10,261 records, only a few met the criteria for inclusion in the review. In the end, six studies were included in the quantitative analysis, and one in the qualitative analysis. These selected studies helped to chart and summarize the potential benefits of NBR on the sensory-motor, psychological, cognitive, behavioral, and emotional consequences faced by adults with ABI.

Link

Vibholm, A.P., Christensen, J.R., & Pallesen, H. (2020). Nature-based rehabilitation for adults with acquired brain injury: A scoping review. Int J Environ Health Res., 30(6), 661-676

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