Researchers examined the records of 99 traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients who had completed a vocational rehabilitation (VR) program to assess their return to work patterns. The majority of participants (97%) had experienced a moderate to severe brain injury.
83% of the participants were found to be successful in returning to work. 91% of participants were found to return to their previous employer, although changes in work patterns were found among many participants. 51% had returned to modified duties, 50% needed to employ strategies to cope with cognitive and physical changes and 45% were working reduced hours. 25% of participants had needed all three work pattern changes. Fatigue and decreased attention were highly reported as being an issue at work.
The authors concluded with rehabilitation implications, highlighting the benefits of multidisciplinary vocational rehabilitation and taking a graded approach on returning to work. The authors further highlighted the importance of employer education and implementation of workplace accommodations to facilitate a successful return to work.
For more information on the research, visit https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02699052.2026.2680667
Reference: Downing, M., Ross, P., McKenzie, D., & Ponsford, J. (n.d.). Employment outcomes of comprehensive vocational rehabilitation after traumatic brain injury. Brain Injury. https://doi.org/10.1080/02699052.2026.2680667
For more information on returning to work after brain injury including tips for coping, see our publication Returning to work after brain injury.