Article

Brief report - Physical exercise has been proven to be an effective method for
improving cognition and mood, but little is known about its benefits among individuals with traumatic brain injury.
This pilot study investigated
the feasibility of a combined exercise and self-affirmation intervention
(IntenSati) for enhancing cognition and mood in individuals with TBI. It was
hypothesized that this intervention would improve individuals' cognition and mood
following the completion of the program. METHOD: This intervention was held at an
outpatient rehabilitation department in an urban medical center. A wait-list
control design was conducted. Twenty-one adult participants-at least 12-months
post-TBI-enrolled in the study. Twelve of them completed the study. Assessment
was conducted at three time-points throughout the study using neuropsychological
and self-report measures to evaluate participants' cognition and mood. Following
initial evaluation, participants were assigned into either the immediate
intervention group or the waitlist control group. During the intervention,
participants attended the program twice a week over the course of 8 weeks.
Debriefing was conducted following the completion of the program. RESULTS: Both
independent t tests and paired t tests were utilized. Results indicated that the
intervention group experienced less depressive symptoms following the completion
of the IntenSati program compared to the waitlist control group. Participants
also reported having less depressive symptoms, experienced more positive affect,
and had a higher quality of life following the completion of the program.
Moderate-to-large effect sizes were found on decrease in negative affect.
However, results associated with cognitive benefits were mixed.
The participants
tolerated the program well and reported satisfaction with the program.
CONCLUSIONS: Results from this study indicated that the IntenSati exercise
program is a feasible and beneficial intervention for individuals with TBI as
supported by the positive impact on their mood and quality of life.

Langue : ANGLAIS