445 Accompaniment Improves the Experience of Participating Medical Students and Patient Care Taker Dyads: A Novel Hybrid Self-Help Support Group

INTRODUCTION: 30%–44% of patients report feeling lonely after acquired brain injury. This striking reality made it compelling to effect change by determining ways to alleviate this feeling of isolation in this patient population. METHODS: The study methodology first involved recruiting 60 patients with acute neurological illness in the neuro ICU and floor. 20 patients were enrolled and consented based on inclusion criteria and participated in intervention groups where they performed activities such as meditation, reflective reading and writing, etc. Patients’ satisfaction was assessed through a questionnaire administered at baseline and the study’s conclusion. These patients were compared to the control group–patients admitted to the hospital for acute neurological illness without involvement in the support group. RESULTS: Early intervention with patients suffering acute neurological illnesses through simple activities such as meditation, reflective reading and writing improved the primary outcome of patients' connection, acompaniement and sense of hope. Patients involved in our support group reported better mental health outcomes and lower feelings of isolation as compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Human connection and engagement in wellness activities played pivotal roles in the holistic care of patients, impacting their psychological and emotional well-being. Simple activities performed with the intervention group, not only promoted physical health but enhanced cognitive function and mood regulation by relieving stress, and anxiety and improving quality of life as reported by patients. Challenges such as time constraints and limited participant engagement impacted the study’s scope due to conflicting responsibilities. Additionally, the lack of the ability to enroll minors in the study highlight the importance of careful interpretation of the findings and the ongoing need for research in this area to enhance the approach to holistic patient care.