Soy diferente: A qualitative study on the perceptions of recovery following traumatic brain injury among Spanish-speaking U.S. immigrants

Model System:

TBI

Reference Type:

Journal article

Accession No.:

J85027

Journal:

Disability and Rehabilitation (formerly International Disability Studies; International Rehabilitation Medicine)

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

2020 , , ,

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Study explored the impact of traumatic brain injury (TBI) on the quality of life (QoL) and self-concept of Spanish-speaking immigrants with TBI in the United States (US). Semi-structured interviews on QoL and self-concept following TBI were conducted with 24 Spanish-speaking Hispanic immigrants with TBI living in the community in the US at least 6 months following injury. Perceived facilitators of QoL included faith, hopefulness in recovery, empathy for others, and support from others. Perceived barriers to QoL mentioned were symptoms/consequences of injury, employment/financial changes, loss of independence, fear/uncertainty, stigma/shame, lack of medical care, and decreased social integration. Participants described their self-concept after TBI as either a maintained self or loss of self. Those who viewed themselves differently reported physical and emotional changes, gender role conflict, loss of self-worth, and total loss due to the TBI. Spanish-speaking US Hispanic immigrants held a strong faith and positive outlook after TBI despite the significant barriers to recovery. The findings suggest that Spanish-speaking US Hispanic immigrants may experience significant barriers to care following TBI, such as access to rehabilitation services and follow-up care. Rehabilitation professionals should consider the importance of faith and encourage positive thinking and social support when working with Spanish-speaking US Hispanic immigrants on how to cope with TBI-related challenges. Access to Spanish-speaking rehabilitation professionals, translators and Spanish-language educational materials could help reduce language-related barriers to recovery.

Author(s):

Pappadis, Monique R. Sander, Angelle M. |Struchen, Margaret A. |Kurtz, Diana M.|