Effects of the CarFreeMe Traumatic Injuries, a Community Mobility Group Intervention, to Increase Community Participation for People With Traumatic Injuries: A Randomized Controlled Trial With Crossover

Frontiers in Neurology, 2022 · DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.821195 · Published: July 1, 2022

Trauma Neurorehabilitation Public Health

Simple Explanation

After traumatic injuries, being able to participate in community activities is important for well-being and independence. However, injuries can make it hard to drive, which limits participation. This study looks at whether a group program called CarFreeMe TI can help people with traumatic injuries get around and participate in their communities more effectively than just giving them information about transportation options. The CarFreeMe TI program involves group-based support and education delivered in community settings. It aims to address the emotional, social, and practical issues related to driving cessation and community mobility in a personalized way. The study found that people who participated in the CarFreeMe TI program were more likely to use public transport and transport services, and they reported an improved quality of life compared to those who only received information about transport options. However, the program did not significantly change the number of outings from home.

Study Duration

6 Weeks

Participants

20 individuals with traumatic injuries

Evidence Level

Randomized Controlled Trial with Crossover

Key Findings

1
The intervention group showed a significant increase in the use of transport services compared to the control group.
2
Participants who received the intervention reported significant improvements in goal performance and satisfaction related to community mobility.
3
There was a large increase in the EQ-5D-5L utility scores between the baseline and post intervention period.

Research Summary

This study evaluated the effectiveness of the CarFreeMe TI, a group-based community mobility education program, for people with traumatic injuries. The program aimed to improve community participation by promoting alternative modes of transport and addressing the challenges associated with driving cessation. The results indicated that the intervention group showed a significant increase in the use of transport services, improved goal performance and satisfaction, and a potential improvement in quality of life. However, the study faced challenges with data collection using GPS devices and had a small sample size. The study concludes that community mobility group interventions like CarFreeMe TI can be beneficial for people with traumatic injuries by improving their mode of transport use, perception of goal performance/satisfaction, and quality of life. Further research is needed to explore how to integrate such interventions earlier in the injury trajectory and within rehabilitation pathways.

Practical Implications

Promote alternative transport

Healthcare providers should promote alternative transport options for individuals with traumatic injuries who are unable to drive.

Implement community-based programs

Community-based programs such as CarFreeMe TI can be implemented to improve community mobility and quality of life for individuals with traumatic injuries.

Individualize interventions

Interventions should be individualized to address specific goals and needs related to community mobility and participation.

Study Limitations

1
Incomplete data collection using GPS devices
2
Small sample size, limiting the generalizability of the findings
3
Potential challenges in recruiting participants due to their expectations of returning to driving

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