A Theoretical Analysis on Existing Child-Based Cognitive Rehabilitation Models

Background: Cognitive Rehabilitation (CR) has been variously used in the research literature to represent non-pharmacological interventions. Along with adult cognitive impairments, the need to address neurodevelopmental impairments and acquired cognitive impairments among child populations is inevitable. The aim of this paper is to find out the existing CR models and to review the literature gap in the current area of child-based cognitive rehabilitation in India. Methods: Based on a systematic review of the literature from (1978 -2011), all published CR models targeting the cognitive domains of attention, memory, and/or executive function and behavioral aspects that could be identified were reviewed. Results: 15 papers, both Indian studies and foreign publications (Delhi psychiatry journal, APA PsyNet, Springer, Mount Sinai Journal of Medicine), were identified. Conclusions: A very limited number of studies in India have done research in the implementation of a structured module for CR, not established yet among children. Providing at this time is minimal conclusive evidence for, the efficacy of CR among children with neurodevelopmental impairments / acquired brain injury, has been studied. However, a clear need to address the concern of developing a child-based CR model is necessary for creating changes in clinical practice for the child’s betterment.