Activity resumption after acquired brain injury: the influence of the social network as described by social workers.

Several social network factors play a role in activity resumption, well-being, and quality of life of after brain injury. Early after the brain injury, rehabilitation professionals should work with patients' family members, friends, and others and educate them about how to provide adequate support.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONSince the patient's social network is an important determinant of activity resumption, rehabilitation professionals should analyze its features soon after brain injury, such as whether patients have an understanding network that encourages them and includes them in their activities.Since especially close network members tend to be protective of or place high demands on the patient, rehabilitation professionals should explain to them the importance of activity resumption for the patient's wellbeing and the adverse effects of being overprotective or over-demanding.Rehabilitation professionals should include other network members, such as friends or colleagues, in the rehabilitation process and educate them about how to support patients in resuming their activities.