Role of resilience in the rehabilitation of adults with acquired brain injury.

PURPOSE: The goals of this review paper are to present an overview of the literature on resilience in adults with ABI, to describe approaches to measuring resilience in clinical practice and to discuss practical suggestions for promoting resilience in rehabilitation of adults with ABI.

METHOD: We employed systematic review of journal articles, books, and websites related to resilience in adults with acquired brain injury (ABI).

RESULTS: Resilience was associated with adaptation and adjustment for individuals faced with serious injury such as ABI. However, research examining the construct of resilience is limited.

CONCLUSION: While rehabilitation typically focuses on the identification and reduction of impairments for improving functioning, a focus on resilience may allow for recovery in a broader sense that exceeds expected outcomes.