Apply Today

If you are looking for a rewarding career
in online therapy apply today!

APPLY NOW

Sign Up For a Demo Today

Does your school need
Online Therapy Services

SIGN UP

Understanding Brain Infarcts in Marginal Housing: Implications for Practitioners

Understanding Brain Infarcts in Marginal Housing: Implications for Practitioners

Introduction

The prevalence of brain infarcts and their association with cognitive performance in individuals living in marginal housing is a critical area of research that can significantly impact clinical practice. The study titled "Prevalence and Risk Factors of Brain Infarcts and Associations With Cognitive Performance in Tenants of Marginal Housing" by Zhou et al. provides valuable insights into the health challenges faced by this vulnerable population. As practitioners, understanding these findings can enhance our ability to deliver effective interventions and advocate for necessary community services.

Key Findings from the Research

The study assessed 228 participants residing in marginal housing, revealing a high prevalence of brain infarcts (11%), predominantly ischemic in nature. Notably, these infarcts were largely "silent," with 92% of affected individuals unaware of their condition. Despite a lower prevalence of conventional vascular risk factors, such as hypertension and diabetes, the cohort exhibited high rates of tobacco use (94%). The study identified age as a significant predictor of brain infarcts, while cognitive assessments indicated impaired decision-making abilities among those with infarcts.

Implications for Practitioners

For practitioners working with individuals in marginal housing, these findings underscore the importance of comprehensive assessments that go beyond traditional risk factors. Here are some actionable steps practitioners can take:

Encouraging Further Research

The study by Zhou et al. highlights the need for further research to develop targeted interventions for individuals living in marginal housing. Practitioners can contribute to this effort by:

Conclusion

Understanding the prevalence and impact of brain infarcts in individuals living in marginal housing is crucial for developing effective interventions. By leveraging the findings from Zhou et al.'s study, practitioners can enhance their skills and contribute to better health outcomes for this vulnerable population. To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Prevalence and Risk Factors of Brain Infarcts and Associations With Cognitive Performance in Tenants of Marginal Housing.


Citation: Zhou, L. W., Panenka, W. J., Jones, A. A., Gicas, K. M., Thornton, A. E., Heran, M. K. S., Volders, D., Lang, D. J., Vertinsky, A. T., Rauscher, A., Su, W., Barr, A. M., MacEwan, G. W., Honer, W. G., & Field, T. S. (2019). Prevalence and risk factors of brain infarcts and associations with cognitive performance in tenants of marginal housing. Journal of the American Heart Association: Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Disease, 8(13), e011412. https://doi.org/10.1161/JAHA.118.011412
Marnee Brick, President, TinyEYE Therapy Services

Author's Note: Marnee Brick, TinyEYE President, and her team collaborate to create our blogs. They share their insights and expertise in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, Online Therapy Services and Academic Research.

Connect with Marnee on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest in Speech-Language Pathology and Online Therapy Services.

Apply Today

If you are looking for a rewarding career
in online therapy apply today!

APPLY NOW

Sign Up For a Demo Today

Does your school need
Online Therapy Services

SIGN UP

Apply Today

If you are looking for a rewarding career
in online therapy apply today!

APPLY NOW

Sign Up For a Demo Today

Does your school need
Online Therapy Services

SIGN UP