Self-Instruction and rhythmic music-based intervention: A feasibility study of a novel intervention for executive functioning in traumatic brain injury

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) often results in impairments to executive functioning. Self-instruction (SI) and music-based interventions have both independently shown promise in improving cognitive and executive functioning, however they have not been studied in combination. This study explores the feasibility and potential benefits of combining rhythmic music-based intervention and SI for individuals with a history of TBI experiencing executive dysfunction. Four male participants (aged 38-64) with severe TBI participated in a twice-weekly intervention combining rhythmic music-based intervention and SI over five weeks. Participants were assessed pre and post-intervention using the BRIEF-A for executive functioning, along with secondary measures, the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-42), Seashore Rhythm Test (SRT), Letter Number Task (LNT), and Quality of Life After Brain Injury Scale (QOLIBRI). Feasibility was assessed through a questionnaire. Three of four participants reported significant improvements in behaviour regulation, and three of four informants reported observing significant improvements in participants’ overall executive functioning. These findings indicate that combining rhythmic music-based intervention with SI is a feasible, well-tolerated, and potentially effective intervention for improving executive functioning in individuals with TBI. Future randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the efficacy of the intervention.