The brain is by far the most complex organ of the human body and is considered the body’s control center. When an injury to the brain occurs, the results can range from little to no damage to severe damage. The severity and prognosis of a brain injury be different depending on the location and level of damage.

Your loved one living with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) may be exhibiting some changes to include; behavioral expressions, impaired social and coping skills along with reduced self-esteem. No doubt you may have already witnessed that they have periods of frustration, anger, agitation, denial, and a lack of motivation.

The person living with a brain injury may experience cognitive issues and have problems with making decisions, planning, and/or organizing. These cognitive impairments can also affect:

• Short- and long-term memory
• Problems with concentration and attention spans
• Difficulty with completing activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living, (IADLs)

Adaptive equipment and assistive technology can include devices to help with cognition such as:

• Sticky labels to identify items in a drawer
• Calendars, checklists and schedules
• Pill organizers for safe medication administration
• Recording devices for reminders
• Communication aides

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) to include:

• Mobility-to reduce risk of skin breakdown
• Bathing
• Dressing & Grooming
• Providing safe, healthy nutrition and hydration
• Safety in the bathroom especially with toileting assistance

Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) to include:

• Planning, shopping, and preparing healthy meals
• Housekeeping and Laundry
• Medication reminders
• Setting up technology to keep them connected to loved ones
• Safe transportation to appoints and social outings