Author Identifier (ORCID)
Mandy Stanley: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7958-5181
Abstract
Purpose: To gain knowledge of the early phase post-injury experiences related to choice and control for individuals living with acquired brain injury or spinal cord injury, as well as their caregivers. Materials and Methods: A qualitative study was conducted to understand the experiences of individuals with acquired brain injury or spinal cord injury and their caregivers in the early phase post-injury, focusing on the aspects of choice and control. Nine individuals with acquired brain injury or spinal cord injury and four of their caregivers participated in semi-structured in-depth interviews, and the data was analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Four themes emerged: (1) Passenger in the system, (2) Can’t do it alone, (3) I want to improve, and (4) A new normal. A sense of empowerment or vulnerability may be influenced by participants’ experiences of choice and control. Conclusion: The study offers insights for healthcare professionals aiming to enhance the sense of choice and control for individuals living with acquired brain injury or spinal cord injury. An approach involving shared control and promoting choice, agency, and empowerment may positively influence post-injury experiences for these individuals.
Document Type
Journal Article
Date of Publication
1-1-2024
Publication Title
Disability and Rehabilitation
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
School
School of Medical and Health Sciences
RAS ID
77147
Funders
Lifetime Support Authority University of South Australia (GA00054)
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.
Comments
This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis in DISABILITY AND REHABILITATION on 4th December, 2024, available online: http://www.tandfonline.com/10.1080/09638288.2024.2432909
van Kessel, G., Mackintosh, S., Murray, C. M., Guerin, M., Fryer, C. E., & Stanley, M. (2024). Empowerment through choice: the interplay of choice and control after spinal cord or brain injury. Disability and Rehabilitation. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2024.2432909