ACQUIRED BRAIN INJURY STUDY FOR THE CALGARY REGION

In 2019, ARBI led a collaborative research study with other service providers across the Calgary continuum of care, Acquired Brain Injury Study for the Calgary Region. The study identified service gaps in the delivery of services for acquired brain injury and recommendations that will make significant differences for the largest number of ABI individuals, provide a high ROI for the Government of Alberta, and will help ensure the sector’s sustainability. ARBI thanks the Government of Alberta for funding this study and empowering focused collaboration in exploring the issues and opportunities of Calgary’s ABI continuum of care, and setting a foundation for further collaboration and progress among community and government service providers to better serve ABI individuals and their families.

ABI Study for the Calgary Region PDF

COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT MEASURE FOR THE MINIMALLY RESPONSIVE INDIVIDUAL (CAMMRI)

This comprehensive assessment was developed and piloted at ARBI for use with minimally responsive brain injury clients to better quantify changes in responsiveness. The measure is comprised of three main areas: Response to the Environment, Motor Control, and Communication and Swallowing. Research conducted at ARBI investigating the validity data of this assessment supports the use of the CAMMRI for minimally conscious adults with an acquired brain injury (ABI) to measure behavioural changes and plan treatment for this population.

Cammri Article PDF

CARING FOR THE STROKE CAREGIVER

ARBI’s Caregiver Support Group was developed to aid in addressing the need for social and emotional support and to mitigate burnout among caregivers. The group aims to provide psychoeducation, the opportunity for peer support and interaction, and skill-building strategies for caregivers. Annual surveys conducted with this group indicate its effectiveness in promoting a better understanding of stressors associated with caregiving as well as its helpfulness in managing caregiver responsibilities.

INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO ACTIVITY-BASED STROKE REHABILITATION

ARBI uses an activity-based interdisciplinary program model to address client needs while ensuring meaningful and functional practice during the recovery process. Instead of assessing underlying impairments and targeting them for remediation of disability, ARBI assesses the impact disability has on one’s life roles first. Therapists acquire a more holistic view of helping clients achieve their rehabilitation goals. Ongoing evaluation of this approach takes place through the use of standardized assessment measures, reinforcing the need for therapeutic approaches to complement the client’s motivation and relevant functional goals through all stages of recovery.

BRIDGING THE KNOWLEDGE GAP FOR STROKE REHABILITATION VOLUNTEERS

Feedback from our valued volunteers pointed to a need for more knowledge about why our stroke rehabilitation program is designed the way it is, how to deliver efficient and effective programs, and who our clients are. In response to this, ARBI developed the following workshops, which are offered on an ongoing basis to volunteers and students: Emotional and Behavioural Consequences of Stroke and Brain Injury, Activity-Based Rehabilitation and Neuroplasticity and Supported Conversation for Adults with Aphasia (SCA™).

SAEBOFLEX® STUDY

ARBI initiated a pilot project exploring the SaeboFlex® orthosis. This study focused on measuring the effectiveness of this device in upper extremity therapy for stroke and brain injury clients. Standardized assessment measures were used, and favourable results related to shoulder movement, muscle tone, coordination, dexterity and functionality were observed.

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