Understanding Disability and Rehabilitation Barriers Faced by Individuals with Head Injury

Abstract

Disability following head injury reflects a complex interaction between physical, cognitive, emotional, and social impairments that significantly affect an individual’s ability to carry out daily activities. Individuals with acquired disabilities often experience greater psychosocial challenges compared to those with congenital conditions, particularly in adapting to altered roles and societal expectations. The present study aimed to explore the nature and impact of disability, as well as the barriers to rehabilitation, among individuals with head injury from the perspective of caregivers. A qualitative research design using a phenomenological approach was employed to understand lived experiences. A total of 15 caregivers were recruited through convenience sampling, and data were collected using semi-structured interviews. The data were analysed using thematic analysis, including horizontalization and clustering of meaning units into core themes. Four major themes emerged: self, reflecting loss of independence and emotional distress; family, indicating disruption, caregiver burden, and emotional strain; occupation, highlighting loss of vocational roles and cognitive challenges; and barriers to rehabilitation, including transportation difficulties, limited accessibility, and lack of awareness about available services. Most caregivers reported significant challenges in adapting to post-injury changes, although strong familial support and willingness to facilitate recovery were evident across socio-economic backgrounds. The findings suggest that head injury has a multidimensional impact extending beyond the individual to the family system, while structural and informational barriers continue to limit effective rehabilitation. The study underscores the need for improved rehabilitation accessibility, increased awareness, and family-inclusive intervention strategies.

Keywords: Head injury, Rehabilitation barriers, Phenomenology, Caregiver perspectives