Characteristics of peer-based interventions for individuals with neurological conditions: a scoping review

Abstract

Purpose

Peer-based interventions are increasingly popular and cost-effective therapeutic opportunities to support others experiencing similar life circumstances. However, little is known about the similarities and differences among peer-based interventions and their outcomes for people with neurological conditions. This scoping review aims to describe and compare the characteristics of existing peer-based interventions for adults with common neurological conditions.

Materials and methods

We searched MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsychInfo, and Embase for research on peer-based interventions for individuals with brain injury, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, and stroke up to June 2019. The search was updated in March 2021. Fifty-three of 2472 articles found were included.

Results

Characteristics of peer-based intervention for this population vary significantly. They include individual and group-based formats delivered in-person, by telephone, or online. Content varied from structured education to tailored approaches. Participant outcomes included improved health, confidence, and self-management skills; however, these varied based on the intervention model.

Conclusion

Various peer-based interventions exist, each with its own definition of what it means to be a peer. Research using rigorous methodology is needed to determine the most effective interventions. Clear definitions of each program component are needed to better understand the outcomes and mechanism of action within each intervention.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

• Rehabilitation services can draw on various peer support interventions to add experiential knowledge and support based on shared experience to enhance outcomes.

• Fulfilling the role of peer mentor may be beneficial and could be encouraged as part of the rehabilitation process for people with SCI, TBI, Stroke, PD, or MS.

• In planning peer-based interventions for TBI, Stroke, SCI, PD, and MS populations, it is important to clearly define intervention components and evaluate outcomes to measure the impact of the intervention.

Keywords:

• Peer support
• peer mentor
• peer coach
• intervention
• neurological condition
• models

Acknowledgements

We would like to acknowledge Sarah Wickett (Interim Head Health Sciences Librarian, Queen’s University) for her contribution to the database search portion of this project, and Lori Canes^a, Christina Della Croce^a, Thomas Johnstone^a, and Tianna Park^a for their contributions to the screening process and writing of this manuscript.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).