Effects of guided aerobic exercise and mindfulness after acquired brain injury: a pilot study
Sammanfattning
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine whether a specific guided programme of aerobic
exercise together with mindfulness could have an effect on estimated health status and occupational
performance in individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI). As secondary outcomes, the effects on
health-related quality of life, cognition and mental fatigue were analysed.
Methods: The study included individuals with mild to moderate ABI (n ¼ 21) with residual cognitive
impairments. Guided interventions were given three times per week for 12 weeks. Neuropsychological
and physical tests as well as patient-reported outcome measures were used as outcomes.
Results: Estimated health status, self-reported occupational performance as well as satisfaction with
performance improved together with physical capacity. Improvements in cognitive functions were
related to attention and information processing speed; in addition, self-reported mental fatigue was
reduced after the intervention. Cognitive function related to working memory and health-related quality
of life were not affected.
Conclusions: Support to improve physical capacity combined with practicing mindfulness, bringing
attention to the present moment, seems to have a positive impact on occupational performance, estimated
health status, attention and information processing speed as well as mental fatigue in individuals
with cognitive dysfunction after ABI.