A feasibility study of a peer mentoring program for acquired brain injury.

INTRODUCTION

Acquired brain injury (ABI) can lead to difficulties in activities of daily living and reduced participation. Few interventions have explored the treatment impact of peer mentoring for people with ABI. This study explored the feasibility and acceptability of a peer mentoring intervention (PAIRS).

METHODS

Mixed-methods feasibility study with post-intervention interviews. Feasibility was assessed regarding recruitment, retention, and intervention adherence. Acceptability was assessed through post-intervention interviews with mentors, mentees, carers, and healthcare professionals. Effectiveness was assessed using descriptive statistics on quality of life, mood, and goal attainment. Interviews were analyzed using the framework method.

RESULTS

Four mentor-mentee pairs completed an introductory meeting, and between one and six further meetings. Three carers and five healthcare providers were recruited. More resources, such as improved staffing levels, would have improved recruitment rates. Carers showed reductions in carer burden. Interviews showed that participants valued the social contact provided by mentoring and reported some benefits to quality of life and adaptations to the effects of brain injury. However, they experienced difficulties arranging meetings.

CONCLUSION

Peer mentoring was challenging and resource-intensive, suggesting a larger effectiveness study using the methods employed here is not feasible. Future studies should address matching procedures, implementation barriers, and consider alternative outcomes.