I am a Caregiver
Brain injury doesn’t happen to just one person but to the whole family.
Something happens – an accident, an illness – and suddenly, a brain injury changes everything. Early on, it can be like entering a new world with its own language; with time, it can be hard to understand why your loved one acts as they do or how to best support their progress.
You find you need to learn about services you never heard of, and through all of this, you need to take care of yourself so you can be there for the long haul.
To learn more about the importance of taking care of yourself read our Self-Care and Resilience Quick Guide here.
We Can Help you Sort Things Out
For Seniors
Falls are the leading cause of brain injury, and senior adults are at greater risk of falling and being hospitalized for that injury than any other group. Recognizing a brain injury in older people can be difficult because the natural effects of aging and the challenges of brain injury overlap. Learning the effects of the injury can help get the right care; learning about resources can help get the right supports.
Helpful Links
Virginia Area Agencies on Aging
National Alliance for Caregiving
Resources:
Fall Prevention:Tips for Reducing Falls for Adults
Traumatic Brain Injury Facts: TBI & Older Adults
Successful Aging of Individuals with Brain Injury
For Children
Brain injury symptoms in children and teens are similar to those experienced by adults, but the functional impact can be very different. Children are not small adults; the brain of a child is still developing. To learn more visit our children: What to Expect? section of our website.
For Adults
The news that a loved one has sustained a brain injury – whether that person is your spouse, a sibling, adult child, or a good friend – can be confusing and scary. Each brain is different and the effects of an injury can be temporary for some, and extensive and long term for others. Getting educated can help you ask the right questions and find the right services, no matter if it’s a concussion or a more severe injury or when it happened.
Resources
Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury – The Impact on Families
Couples’ Relationships After Traumatic Brain Injury
10 Things You Should Know about Behavior
Checklist for Brain Injury Problems
Helpful Links
Department For Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) -Brain Injury Services Coordination Unit
Department of Medical Assistance Services – Waiver Services
Resource Request Form
Need more information? Let us help. Complete the Resource Request form or call 1-800-444-6443.
Resource Request Form
Events for Caregivers
Caregiver Forum
Learn more about this annual event that includes education on topics related to care giving, community resources, coping skills, self-care and time for networking with others.
Other Resources
Review the articles below to learn more:
Caregivers Role in Communicating with Healthcare Professionals