Managing Dysexecutive Syndrome (DS): CIHR 2011-2014

Executive dysfunction is endemic after severe acquired brain injuries (ABIs) and is highly associated with long-lasting psychosocial distress, problems in a multiplicity of everyday activities and overall reduced quality of life. There is increasing evidence to suggest that a novel behavioral intervention is a treatment of choice for executive dysfunction. However few studies have addressed ecological relevance: failing to take into account the significant impact of the complex settings of real life on executive function. More data are desperately needed in this area given the devastating consequences of ABI. We propose to investigate the benefits of two community- based interventions.

Inclusion criteria

• fluent in written and spoken English,
• have sustained (1) a moderate to severe TBI as defined by a 6-hour GCS of 12 or less OR (2) complicated mild TBI with GCS 13-15 and associated abnormal findings on CT or MRI scan OR (3) other form of acquired brain injury (ABI) that is not related to a congenital, developmental or degenerative disorder but which occurred through a medical problem or disease process including stroke,

Exclusion criteria

other significant neurological or psychiatric history such as multiple sclerosis or psychiatric illness requiring hospitalization, concurrent moderate to severe depression.