Suffering from a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be a life-changing experience. Recovery can be a difficult time for both the survivor and their loved ones. Luckily, there are many ways you can help someone adjust to life after TBI.
What to Know About Traumatic Brain Injuries
Brain injuries can vary greatly, so it’s best to learn more about the specific type of brain injury your loved one suffers from.
The easiest way to do this is to ask your loved one what they’re experiencing. If they have trouble communicating, talk to caregivers, family members, or doctors to help yourself better understand what they’re going through.
Remember that the symptoms of a brain injury can change rapidly. While your loved one may seem fine one day, they may have trouble communicating or completing basic tasks on other days.
How to Talk to a Person With a Brain injury
Talking to someone with a traumatic brain injury requires honesty, kindness, and patience. Even though your loved one may have trouble communicating or remembering things, they’re still the same person they once were, and you should treat them as such.
Depending on their condition, you may need to adjust the way you speak to them, but it’s still important for you to treat your friend as an adult. Imagine how frustrating it would be if everyone started treating you like a child after you were injured!
Here are some tips for having a successful conversation with a loved one with TBI:
- Make sure you have the person’s attention before you start speaking
- Ensure they’re sitting down in a quiet, comfortable place
- Stick to one topic at a time to avoid confusion
- Give them ample time to respond
- Discuss familiar people, places, and interests
- Keep conversations short to avoid fatigue
- Include them as much as possible in group settings
If your friend becomes agitated or tired, let them rest, then try again later. It may feel uncomfortable at first, but don’t give up. Your friend is going through a very difficult time, and they’ll greatly appreciate your efforts, even if they’re not able to express it right now.
How to Get Treatment for Someone with a Brain Injury
If your loved one suffers from TBI, you’ll want to encourage them to enroll in a rehabilitation program. They’ll need the help of doctors and rehabilitation specialists to ensure they get the appropriate care.
It’s also important to ensure they’re living somewhere safe that provides the support they need to heal. Assisted living for a traumatic brain injury can be a great place for them to regain some of their independence, while still having access to treatment and support when they need it.
While your loved one recovers, you can offer basic assistance to make their daily life easier. For example, you could offer to run errands, tidy around the house, or set up a planner so they can keep track of tasks.
Discuss with your loved one what will be most helpful for them. Even if they decline your help, they’ll likely appreciate the offer.
Acquired Brain Injury Housing at Options Residential
Since 2005, Options Residential has been providing customized living services in Dakota County, Ramsey, and Hennepin for people suffering from traumatic brain injuries. Options Residential operates on a unique philosophy that every individual has the capacity to reach their goals of independence. That’s why they offer multiple levels of care, to meet participants wherever they are in their recovery process.
Whether your loved one needs intensive support or simply a place to recover while they get their life back on track, Options Residential has a living space to fit their needs. We’re the best choice for residential brain injury rehab in Minnesota.
Fill out a referral form to learn more about the services offered at Options Residential.
