Acquired brain injury (ABI) or a progressive neurological condition (PNC) may result in a neurobehavioural disability that can appear in the form of cognitive and behavioural changes. These changes may occur alongside physical disabilities for some, and can be impacted by the environment the person lives in. 

Cognitive changes

The kinds of changes seen following an ABI or PNC might include:

• Self-monitoring difficulties
• Poor memory and learning
• Poor attention and concentration
• Reasoning, problem-solving and decision-making difficulties
• Poor planning and organisation
• Slow and inflexible thinking
• Reduced insight and awareness
• Difficulty thinking through consequences
• Communication difficulties with understanding or expression

Behavioural changes

A person's behavioural changes following an ABI or PNC can be one of the most difficult areas for family and friends to cope with. Symptoms may include:

• Irritability and aggression
• Changes in personality
• Overly personal remarks or sexually disinhibited behaviour
• Poor social judgement
• Impulsivity or finding it difficult to wait
• Apathy and lack of motivation

Emotional changes may also be evident. These can include the onset of depression, anxiety, anger or mood swings.

Rehabilitation

Neurobehavioural rehabilitation has been shown to be successful in helping people following an ABI cope with, and reduce levels of, challenging behaviour. In addition we use a person-centred approach which is recognised as a supportive framework for people with a PNC. This approach includes:

• Therapeutic environment
• Transdisciplinary teams
• Routine of individual and group sessions
• Positive behavioural support planning
• Regular opportunities for feedback

Our services and locations

Priory’s network of Brain Injury Services includes an award-winning neurobehavioural rehabilitation programme, which is offered across various sites throughout the country.

The following locations specialise in neurobehavioural rehabilitation for people with an ABI or PNC:

• Priory Burton Park
• Priory Elm Park
• Priory Mount Eveswell