Neuroscience Insights: Advances in Brain Studies
Review Article Volume: 1 & Issue:1
Abstract
Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) results in complex physical, psychological, and ocular complications requiring comprehensive rehabilitation. Age-related differences in neuroplasticity may influence rehabilitation effectiveness, yet systematic evidence comparing outcomes across age groups remains limited.
Objective: To investigate the efficacy of interdisciplinary therapy for TBI patients of all ages, with an emphasis on visual-ocular, psychological, and physical consequences.
Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis followed PRISMA guidelines. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and PsycINFO for studies published between 2014 and 2024 using the following terms: “traumatic brain injury,” “head injury,” “rehabilitation,” “outcomes,” “pediatric,” “adult,” and “elderly.” Inclusion criteria comprised: (1) original research on TBI rehabilitation outcomes; (2) stratification by age group; (3) quantitative outcome measures; and (4) English-language publication. After 1458 articles were checked by two impartial reviewers, 14 of them satisfied the requirements for a comprehensive review. Using random-effects models, a meta-analysis was conducted with results stratified by age group: children under the age of 18, adults between the ages of 18 and 65, and seniors over the age of 65.
Results: Fourteen studies (n=876; comprising 3 randomized controlled trials, 8 cohort studies, and 3 case-control studies) were included in the final analysis. Clear age-related gradients emerged: pediatric patients (<18 years) achieved 95% recovery into the highest functional categories versus 90% for adults (18–65 years) and 28% for elderly patients (>65 years). Pediatric patients showed 40% better school reintegration, while elderly patients demonstrated 18% greater functional gains with integrated care. 42–54% of patients experienced visual-ocular problems; 24% of patients saw an improvement in function with integrated vision rehabilitation. Only 13–25% of individuals with moderate-to-severe TBI, however, received thorough rehabilitation.
Conclusions: One of the main factors influencing TBI rehabilitation results is age. Despite the success of interventions, 40–80% of survivors experience long-term disability, and only 50–57% can resume productive occupations. The findings highlight the necessity of increasing access to interdisciplinary, age-tailored programs while addressing inequities in the systemic delivery of care.