Psychosocial Sequelae After Acquired Brain Injury: A 5-Year Follow-Up

Objective Several studies have investigated biopsychosocial consequences after acquired brain injury (ABI) in the early rehabilitation phases. However, longitudinal studies are rare and few go beyond three years post-injury. The aim of the present study was to assess biopsychosocial challenges in a long term perspective and investigate which challenges remain after five years. With reference to the biopsychosocial model our study holds a special emphasis on the psychosocial aspects of it. Methods: Adults (N = 45) with moderate or severe ABI were evaluated at three time points: at discharge from hospitalization, 1-year post-injury, and 5-year follow-up. Data were derived from self-reported questionnaires: Major Depression Inventory, Quality of life, Impact on Participation and Autonomy Questionnaire and self-reports on work and marital status. Repeated measures ANOVAs were used for analysis. Results: Physical QOL and aspects of autonomy increased over time whereas social QOL decreased. Family roles were challenged at discharge and remained so at 1-year and 5-year follow-up, and the frequency of being married or in a relationship dropped. Level of depression did not change significantly over time, and one in four were still above clinical cut-off at the 5-year follow-up. Employment increased over time but remained less than half of the pre-injury level. Conclusion: Improvements in perceived physical function and autonomy are possible long after the injury, whereas social relations remain a challenge and signs of depression persist.