Rehabilitation through a cultural lens: the experience of culturally and linguistically diverse traumatic brain injury survivors in Australia.

Résumé

PURPOSE: Studies have suggested that culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivors show poorer outcomes than those from the dominant culture; the reasons for this are not well understood. Our study aimed to explore the lived experience of CALD TBI survivors in Australia, focusing on how culturally bound factors may have interacted with their rehabilitation and recovery.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A qualitative research design was utilised, with 17 CALD TBI survivors (aged 21-79) from 12 different countries participating in semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.RESULTS: Six themes and 18 subthemes were identified. Participants were grateful for access to fully funded care and supportive rehabilitation clinicians. Challenges such as limited English proficiency or differences in cultural norms affected engagement. Many relied on their belief systems and familial support to guide recovery. Some acknowledged experiencing stigma and isolation attributed to limited understanding of TBI within their families and communities, as well as broader cultural differences in understanding of brain injury and mental health.CONCLUSION: These findings highlight the importance of understanding how culturally bound factors can shape the lived experience of CALD TBI survivors, with the potential to inform best practice to achieve optimal outcomes.