Supporting a Loved One With a Traumatic Brain Injury
Every year there are about 2.8 million emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and deaths resulting from traumatic brain injury. Traumatic brain injuries affect not only the individuals but their families and communities. When your loved one has experienced a traumatic brain injury, it can be overwhelming. Your lives have been turned upside down, and you may want to offer support, but you don’t know how.
Learn About the Injury
Read as much as you can about traumatic brain injury, especially about the specific type your loved one suffers from. Knowing what they are going through and what to expect can be extremely helpful in providing support.
Be Patient
Traumatic brain injuries come in many different forms, and the results can be unpredictable. From changes in memory and movement to depression or personality changes, your loved one may experience a number of troubling side effects. They may appear different from day to day or hour to hour. It’s important to be as patient as possible and remember that your loved one is going through the worst time in their lives. They deserve your patience, love, and support without judgment and negativity.
Keep them Organized
Your loved one may have problems with memory and organization as a result of their injury. To be supportive you can offer to help them stay organized. Develop systems, such as calendars and lists, to help them remember things like appointments and even how to complete everyday tasks.
Get Them Out of the House
Don’t drag them out against their will but getting a loved one with a traumatic brain injury out of the house on occasion can help give them a new perspective. Keep in mind that they may be sensitive to light, sounds, or crowds so make sure that you find a place that is calm with a laid-back atmosphere.
Listen
It can be hard to anticipate the needs of someone with a traumatic brain injury, but it’s helpful to listen to them. Let them know that you want to help and listen for the things they ask for help with. Your loved one may be embarrassed or not want to appear needy, so it’s important just to show up for them with open arms.
Get Help for Yourself
A traumatic brain injury is hard on family members and caregivers as well. It’s important to find support groups whether they are online or in the community to help with healing and coping. Don’t forget to take time for yourself. The better rested you are, the more help you will be able to provide your loved one.
Call an Experienced Traumatic Brain Injury Attorney
If your loved one has sustained a traumatic brain injury as a result of someone’s negligence, it is important that you meet with a local personal injury attorney to explore your options. At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we have the experience to help you determine the next step. Contact our firm online or call us at 1-800-538-4878 to schedule a free consultation.