Longitudinal changes in functioning and disability in patients with disorders of consciousness: the importance of environmental factors.

ABSTRACT: Disorders of consciousness are neurological conditions associated with low levels of functioning which pose a serious challenge to public health systems. The current study aimed to examine longitudinal changes in functioning in patients with disorders of consciousness and to identify associated biopsychosocial factors using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health. An Italian sample of 248 patients was assessed longitudinally. Differences in relative variability (an index of change that controls for baseline levels) between acute and chronic patients and predictors of relative variability in "Activities & Participation" were examined. Results showed that there were subgroups of patients whose functioning improved over time. The number of problems in "Acti

SUBMITTER: Willems M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4410211 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature