Abstract Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a principal cause of death and disability in young adults with consequences ranging from physical disabilities to long-term cognitive, behavioral and social disorders. Cognitive rehabilitation is a term used to refer to that branch of rehabilitation aimed at patients who are disabled primarily as a result of impairments in memory, judgment and other cognitive functions. This paper critically explores existing literature regarding cognitive rehabilitation for treatment of TBI patients to determine what types of cognitive rehabilitation are used, what the strengths and weaknesses of these types are and whether or not there are specific cognitiveimpairments that are more amenable to cognitive rehabilitation.
Paper Outline:
Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Background of the Problem
Purpose of the Study
Significance of the Study
Rationale of the Study
Research Questions
Definition of Terms
Limitations of the Study
Review of Literature
Overview of TBI
CognitiveImpairments: Conditions Linked to TBI
Costs of Cognitive Rehabilitation for TBI
Cognitive Rehabilitation: Strategies and Practices
Variables Influencing Cognitive Rehabilitation Outcomes
Conclusions to the Chapter
Research Design
Data Collection
Data Analysis
Inclusion Criteria
Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy Rehabilitation
Holistic/Home-Based Therapy Studies
Computer-Assisted/Virtual Reality Studies
Research Questions and Hypothesis
From the Paper "Whitlock and Hamilton (1995) suggest, however, that even the most severely brain damaged patient can recover cognitive functioning to a remarkable degree if admitted to an acute rehabilitation program as early as possible after the initial injury. Age, severity of injury, pre-TBI educational and/or functional level, and type of treatment provided were among the most significant variables influencing outcome. Several other studies of a similar nature - i.e., Katz and Alexander (1994), Lubusko, Moore, and Stambrook (1994), and Carney, Chesnut, Maynard, Mann, Patterson, and Helfand (1999) - found further support for the effects of these variables on the outcome of cognitive rehabilitation."
This paper provides a critique of the research paper "Does Cognitive Function in Older Adults with Hearing Impairment Improve by Hearing Aid Use?" by van Hooren et al.
Abstract In this article, the writer notes that the main hypothesis of the study, "Does Cognitive Function in Older Adults with Hearing Impairment Improve by Hearing Aid Use?", can be stated as follows: while hearing aids show significant results in terms of auditory improvement, there is no proof to suggest a related improvement or increase in cognitive ability as a result of the application of a hearing aid. The writer explains that the study refers to cognitive functions such as memory, attention, executive functioning, and processing speed. The writer also explains that it should be noted at the outset that this hypothesis presupposes a connection, albeit based on prior research sources, between hearing or hearing enhancements and cognitive functioning. Thus, this is an aspect that forms part of the critique in this analysis of the paper. The writer points out that it is also suggested that the methodology used to ascertain cognitive correlation is to some extent not adequate in terms of the complexity of determining quantitatively a definite link between hearing aids and improved cognition.
From the Paper "The methodology used in this study was comparatively simple and conventionally straight-forward. In essence a relatively small number or participants were used in this study - which is also a point of contention with regard to the results and conclusion of this research. In total there were fifty-six participants (mean age 0/72.5) who were fitted with hearing aids were compared with 46 control participants (mean age 0/74.5) with an equivalent impairment, but who were not fitted with a hearing aid. The study took cognizance of a number of variables and factors that could influence the results of the experiment. These included neurocognitive tests after 12 months. However, it is also possible that these tests in terms of personality and individual psychological components were not sufficient. This aspect is possibly one of the reasons why the study did not return the expected correlation between hearing aids and cognitive improvement."
Tags: memory, attention, cognition, sensory, organ
This paper reviews the 2003 report written by Karen Olness in the "Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics" called "Effects On Brain Development Leading To CognitiveImpairment: A Worldwide Epidemic".
Abstract This paper explains that the article "Effects On Brain Development Leading To CognitiveImpairment: A Worldwide Epidemic" is both a technical overview of some possible causes of mental and other cognitiveimpairments in children in developing countries and a cry for help. The author points out that Dr. Olness states that iron deficiency suffered in infancy has been attributed to behavior problems in children such as anxiety, depression, social problem and other attention issues. The author of this paper believes that these cognitive brain issues are preventable by giving pregnant mothers and infants iron supplements; however, the resources needed to prevent famine situations are too limited at best in second-world nations and nonexistent in third-world nations.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Plot
My Thoughts & Do I Agree/Disagree
Conclusion
From the Paper "Unfortunately, according to the author, cognitive limitations in children appear to be on the rise. Because the majority of these cases are in underdeveloped poor nations, medical help or professional expertise is limited or totally nonexistent. The fact that many of the associated causes of these cognitive concerns stem from malnutrition makes this even a bigger concern as famine continues to spread as the rich get richer and the poor die."
Abstract The writer uses personal experience as a teacher for 4th graders to detail a method one could use to explain the problem of sexual abuse to special needs students. The writer explains the problems of teaching the issue of sexual abuse as a whole, but focuses on the greater difficulties when teaching cognitively-impaired students.
From the Paper "Firstly, it is more important to realize as a special education teacher of cognitively impaired students because they are more often targeted by sexual predators. There are several reasons why a cognitively impaired child has more vulnerability to sexual abuse, one reason is most times it is physically much harder for them to defend themselves from someone. (Civjan & Hughey, p.35) Another reason for the defenselessness would have to be the desire to be accepted and the desire to please others. (Civjan & Hughey, p.35) Someone who is cognitively impaired has a tendency to trust others easily and may become emotionally dependent upon that person."
Abstract The paper explains that Mild CognitiveImpairment (MCI) is a fairly new term to the medical community. The paper relates that most healthcare professionals use it to describe "people who have some problems with their memory but do not actually have dementia." The paper discusses how studies indicate MCI can predict Alzheimer's. The paper explains that as research progresses, a new understanding of Alzheimer's disease and its predictors could hopefully allow treatment and longevity for victims of this disease. The paper relates that for those continuing to suffer from the disease, new designs in assisted living and Alzheimer's facilities can facilitate treatment, a better quality of life and increased involvement in eventually discovering a cure for Alzheimer's disease.
From the Paper "This condition is not a disease, and not everyone who has it develops Alzheimer's disease. However, many studies indicate MCI can predict Alzheimer's and many individuals diagnosed with MCI do go on to develop Alzheimer's within a few years. The Alzheimer's Society of Great Britain notes, "In studies carried out in memory clinics, 10-15 per cent of people with MCI went on to develop dementia in each year that the research results were followed up" (Editors). In other words, about 50 percent of MCI sufferers developed Alzheimer's within three to five years of their diagnosis (Sherman 1)."
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses that cognitiveimpairments and decline are often considered commonplace characteristics of aging. The writer points out that the aged population is increasing in America, and it is important that attention and research be directed at how certain age-associated phenomena, such as cognitive decline, could be reduced. The writer examines research that have determined that dietary intake of certain foods and nutrients have a significant impact on cognitive performance. The writer concludes that high dietary intake of vegetables was determined to be associated with higher cognitive performance scores among the aged population under investigation. Further, the writer maintains that the overall health benefits offered by diets high in vegetable intake need to be factored into interventions aimed at the prevention of all age-related illnesses, including cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease.
Outline:
Method
Participants
Procedure
Results
Discussion
Limitations
Future Research
Conclusion
From the Paper "Since the process of aging is inevitable, what can individuals do to prevent cognitive decline and possible Alzheimer's disease as a result of aging? It is important to focus on prevention and primary care as the most optimal approaches to healthcare for an aging population. Preventative approaches to healthcare result in reduced costs for individuals as well as the healthcare system, as well as increased responsibility and self-reliance on behalf of aging individuals."
"One factor which has the potential to greatly affect overall health, including cognitive performance, is diet. How do the foods consumed by individuals affect cognitive performance? Since mild cognitive impairment has been demonstrated as a significant risk factor for Alzheimer's disease, is it possible to alleviate this risk through dietary intake? Several research studies have determined that dietary intake of certain foods and nutrients have a significant impact on cognitive performance."
A critique of the article "Assessment of Pain in CognitivelyImpaired Older Adults: A Comparison of Pain Assessment Tools and their Use by Non-professional Caregivers," by Krulewitch et al.
Abstract This paper analyzes and critiques the article "Assessment of Pain in CognitivelyImpaired Older Adults: A Comparison of Pain Assessment Tools and their Use by Non-professional Caregivers," by Krulewitch et al., published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society. The writer examines each step of the study in detail and discusses its strengths and limitations. The writer concludes that the limitations of this study may guide future researchers in launching similar and more successful studies in this field.
Outline
Research Problem and Purpose
Hypotheses and Research Question
Literature Review
Theoretical or Conceptual Framework
Population
Protection of Human Participants
Research Design
Instruments and Strategies for Measurement
Data Collection
Data Analysis
Interpretation of Results
Discussion of Findings
Limitations
Implications
Recommendations
Research Utilization in my Practice
From the Paper "Pain was measured using a standardized pain assessment (Krulewitch et al., 2000, 1612). This assessment was administered to all participants in the study. The researchers used several scales in the study. The MMSE was used to determine dementia, along with documented diagnosis as such. The face pain scale and the nonverbal visual analog pain scale were used to determine moderate to sever pain. The researchers of the study report that one-third of demented subjects were unable to rate pain using any of the tools, but had had a pain assessment during the designated time of the study. Researchers point out those who were assessing the subjects for pain may have been unaware of the degree of pain experienced by the demented individual."
Tags: psychotropic, health care, medication mortality analgesia nurse
Abstract This is a proposal for a process change project (initially a pilot project) to better equip nurses to deal effectively with the visually impaired. The paper discusses the implications of being visually impaired and notes that this is a growing population with a grossly under reported incidence of visual impairment and often blindness due to aging and accompanying diseases that affect the elderly. Risk of accidents, such as hip fractures from falls, are suggested as part of the reason for the proposed pilot project. Lewin process change theory is highlighted.
From the Paper "According to the American Foundation for the Blind, approximately 10 million individuals are visually impaired. ("Statistics," 2005). The visually impaired create numerous challenges for nursing and other healthcare practitioners that most institutions are not prepared to deal with. While visual impairment can strike individuals of any age; an estimated 5 million individuals aged 65 or older not residing in nursing homes are visually impaired either directly as a result of the aging process or as a result of diseases, such as diabetes, which affect vision ("Statistics," 2005), with 1 million reported as severe impairment. 26% of all nursing home residents are visually impaired: 3% are blind, 6% as severely impaired and over 16% considered impaired ("Statistics," 2005). Older individuals are also at a higher risk of serious injury based on their visual impairment. As a result, this population is more likely to require medical attention.."
A look at the need to devise teaching and learning strategies which avoid any barriers to accessing knowledge and information for visually impaired children.
Abstract This paper discusses the impact of legislation on the shape of educational services for students with visual impairments. The writer points out four child development theories that are most frequently used to support the practice of early education. The paper also explores support systems for children and parents as well as environmental issues for visually impaired children.
From the Paper "Students who are blind or visually impaired have received educational services for many years. The first of these services were provided by men and women who, despite the prevailing attitudes and practices of their day, believed that children who were blind were capable of success in education and in life. These early pioneers and the countless others who have come after them have provided a rich, solid foundation for the education of visually impaired students. (Holbrook, Koenig, 2000). Nowadays, students who have very low vision and even those who are blind, usually attend regular classes, although they will require various types of support. This may include specialized lighting and equipment, and the assistance of a teacher's aid. Most school systems have procedures for providing materials in large print or Braille, and computers have hugely increased the access of blind students to a whole range of resources (Foreman, 2001)."
Abstract This paper begins with a review of the literature on the cognitive and affective bases of behavior. The review is followed by a brief description of neural networking model of cognition. The paper concludes with an attempt to answer the central question, the purposes of affect in the neural networking model.
Introduction
Cognitive and Affective Bases of Behavior - Sampling of literature
Neural Networking Model of Cognition How can you account for the purposes of affect in a neural networking
model of cognition?
From the Paper "Neural network (NN) modeling has developed as a major component of science's attempt to understand the brain. NN modeling attempts to answer the fundamental question of how does the brain's formidable information-processing abilities emerge from the self-organizing behavior of a collection of relatively simple neurons?"
Abstract This paper compares and contrasts various cognition principles as applied to a high school journalism class. Specifically, the paper examines situated cognition,distributed cognition,and socially shared cognition principles. The paper looks at commonalities and differences and analyzes what objectives are easily assessed from each theoretical framework.
From the Paper "The students in a 12th grade journalism class are learning interviewing skills and how to assemble a news story. The students are assigned to travel to the local government center where reporters are assembling for a statewide video-feed media conference with the governor of the state. There, they will join working reporters who will question the governor after she makes her opening remarks. Instructional Objectives: Each student will be able to: 1. Determine the newsworthiness of topics for a news stories. 2. Select the most newsworthy topic. 3. Plan and write a news story for publication on the same day. 4. Publish the edited story on the class web site as part of the school's intranet. Assessment Methods: 1. News stories will be reviewed for understanding of basic journalistic concepts taught in class."
Abstract This paper discusses IQ tests: their history, their significance and their conclusions. It discusses the first IQ tests in history and explains how the idea came about. It defines several relevant psychological terms such as cognition, intelligence, thinking, and more. It studies the environmental and genetic causes of low cognitive ability: Finally, it concludes that cognition and the study of the brain will develop greatly in the future using FMRI's and other new techniques.
From the Paper "Ever since Simon and Binet developed the first intelligence test in 1905, the field of psychology has maintained a strong interest in the nature of intelligence. How do we think? Why are some people better problem solvers than others? What is cognition, the ability to think about our environment? Why are some people consistently more able to use their brains to think, to remember, and to problem-solve than others?"
An overview of cognitive behavior therapy, focusing on the roles of the therapist and patient and how it compares to other therapies used in psychology.
3,720 words (approx. 14.9 pages), 6 sources, 2006, $ 133.95
Abstract This paper discusses cognitive behavioral therapy and the elements of its practice. It also explores the therapist and patient roles of cognitive behavioral therapy, and how it relates to other therapies currently used in psychology. Adlerian therapy, person centered therapy, existential therapy, Gestalt therapy, reality therapy, solution oriented brief therapy, multi-modal therapy, feminist therapy, and rational emotion behavior therapy are discussed and contrasted to traditional cognitive behavioral therapy. Through these comparisons a focus on the central characteristics of these therapies is evident, providing a framework for patients and professionals to determine which therapy would be most effective for the needs of particular patients.
Abstract The essay evaluates three different intelligence or cognitive tests, namely Raven's test, the Mental Alertness test (HSRC) and the Cognitive Process Profile. These tests are used in both academic and workplace settings and are mainly critiqued in this essay according to their manual information, norm groups, reliability, purpose, and item content.
From the Paper "Intelligence tests are being used increasingly to assist individuals in educational planning, and in making decisions about aspects of their own lives" (Anastasi & Urbina, 1997). Raven's tests have been described as "tests of observation and clear thinking"( Raven et al., 1998, p.657). The Mental Alertness test is to provide measures of general intelligence, arithmetical ability and certain language abilities (Lombard, 1975). A strength of the Cognitive Process Profile is that it measures learning potential and involves a teach-test-teach approach (CPP Manual, 2000).?
Abstract This is a review of a cognitive psychology article that found that older adults can accurately assess the side effects of their own medications -- something that tends to be dismissed by health professionals who do not believe that older adults have sufficient cognitive skills to make such assessments.
