[The cognitive rehabilitation process in a case of bithalamic infarction].
BACKGROUND
One of the fundamental lines followed by Neuropsychology today focuses on rehabilitation processes and their effectiveness. Cognitive rehabilitation is an eclectic process that is dependent on a number of variables. This variability makes it necessary to establish a work plan that guides the intervention carried out by professionals and also makes it clear what objectives are to be achieved, as well as the strategies and tools that must be used to reach them. The purpose of this study is to offer a practical examination of the different points that must be developed in a cognitive rehabilitation process--exemplified here in a case of bithalamic infarction.


METHODS
From a single case and from the specific needs of the individual, a thorough work plan is drawn up. This plan includes a description of everything from the choice of a practical framework for intervention and its underlying principles up to the different training processes, learning techniques and tools that were used and finally proved to be effective. The efficacy and safety of the different strategies and tools used are demonstrated by the short and long term results of the different neuropsychological examinations carried out, which at the same time proved the effectiveness of the work plan that was selected for application.


CONCLUSIONS
A clear understanding of the value of the cognitive rehabilitation processes chosen for use helps to improve the way clinical work is carried out, with the common purpose of restoring neuropsychological deficits and increasing the individual's independence and quality of life.
Forn
C
C
Departamento de Psicología Básica, Clínica y Psicobiología, Universitat Jaume I, Castelló, Spain. forn@psb.uji.es
Mallol
R
R
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D015161:Dementia, Multi-Infarct / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D006801:Humans; D007238:Infarction / Q000150:complications* / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D008297:Male; D008511:Medicine; D008606:Mental Processes / Q000502:physiology; D008875:Middle Aged; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D020127:Recovery of Function; D012050:Rehabilitation, Vocational; D013038:Specialization