Integrative neural networks (INN): a framework to address health disparities in parents of children with chronic conditions
Embargo Date
2023-09-14
OA Version
Citation
Abstract
Prolonged life disruptions lead to isolation, stress, role confusion, and loss of
meaningful daily life. Physiological, cognitive, emotional, and spiritual fragmentation
occurs in body, mind, and spirit during disruptions such as chronic illness, disability, or a
public health crisis lasting longer than 12 months. Although this is the case for parents (or
primary caregivers) of children with chronic conditions whose health disparities have
been extensively documented, it is seldom recognized and leads to lack of individualized
care access. Parents of children with chronic conditions experience increased morbidity
and mortality risks from cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disorders, cancer, and
enteric disruptions. Furthermore, these health disparities manifest as diminished selective
attention, decision making, emotional regulation, sense of belonging, and enjoyment in
meaningful daily activities, which affects their capacity to manage the family’s health.
The Integrative Neural Networks framework was developed to create avenues for
occupational therapy practitioners to assess and improve the level of multisystemic
disruptions affecting an individual’s health and function. This framework allows for
greater access to health care and an interdisciplinary collaborative designed to address
body, mind, and spiritual fragmentations in parents of children with chronic conditions.
The robust theoretical and evidence base used in developing Integrative Neural Networks
serves as a guide for occupational therapy practitioners to understand the problem, lead
the interdisciplinary collaborative, and design a neurointegrative plan of care.