INTRODUCTION: The Family Outcome Measure (FOM-40) captures multidimensional data about well-being and capacity of family member as well as the relative with brain injury. This study aimed to produce a profile (positive and negative) of families supporting relatives with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and high support needs.
METHODS: Thirty-eight dyads (family member plus relative with TBI and high daily support needs) participated in this cross-sectional survey-based pilot study. The survey comprised several published scales, as well as a range of demographic and clinical characteristics of the relative. Non-parametric bivariate analyses were conducted.
RESULTS: Independence of the FOM-40 domains was confirmed. Place of residence (shared supported accommodation (SSA)/family home) was an important predictor variable. SSA was strongly associated with lower levels of burden in families. Family home was strongly associated with better adjustment of the relative. Family resilience was positively associated with sustainability of support and comorbidity in the relative.
DISCUSSION: Family outcomes were associated with a variety of demographic and clinical characteristics of the relative with TBI including residence, behaviour and mental health symptoms. The results provide meaningful evidence for service providers given the increasing investment in independent living in people with disabilities, and the ongoing reliance on families to supplement paid support.