Cognitive and Communication Disorders

Traumatic Brain Injury: Cognitive and Communication Disorders

How are the cognitive and communication problems assessed?

The assessment of cognitive and communication deficits is an ongoing process that involves a number of individuals, including: a doctor, a speech-language pathologist, a neuropsychologist, an occupational therapist, an audiologist, perhaps among others. The rehabilitative process may last for several months or even years.

How are the cognitive and communication problems treated?

The cognitive and communication problems of TBI are best treated early. This early therapy will normally focus upon increasing skills of alertness and attention. They will seek to improve orientation to person, place, time, and situation, and stimulate speech understanding.

Longer term therapy often occurs in a rehabilitation facility that is geared toward the treatment of individuals with TBI. This type of facility allows for intensive therapy by a wide rage of healthcare providers. Other individuals may receive therapy at home or on an outpatient basis at a rehabilitation center.