NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL REHABILITATION IN CASE OF ADOLESCENT WITH CEREBROVASCULAR EVENT IN EARLY CHILDHOOD

Abstract

The objective of this study is to present results of the rehabilitation of an individual case of an adolescent patient with early brain damage in right hemisphere and the cerebellum because of a stroke with an evolution of more than ten years without any formal treatment. The method of the individual case study was used in this research, performing a pre-and-post qualitative assessment before and after of the application of the neuropsychological rehabilitation program. The results obtained in the study allowed to point out an improvement in the functioning of functional systems for practical, ludical, graphic and verbal actions of the patient. Positive changes were obtained in the motor sphere, muscle tone and balance. The patient became more independent in his general behavior, his interests were increased, he showed a higher level of regulation, responsibility, and active participation in his day-to-day life. Neuropsychological assessment should consider the psychophysiological cause of the patient’s difficulties together with the guiding activity of psychological age. Results of such assessment lead to elaboration and application of effective programs for rehabilitation even after long periods without formal treatment. Luria’s neuropsychological theory together with the theory of psychological development represents a solid background for the assessment and organization of the rehabilitation process in cases of patients with brain damage after several years since the event.

Keywords

• Brain injury;
• right hemisphere;
• neuropsychological rehabilitation.