Rehabilitation and Brain Injuries

There is no limit to the degree that a survivor of a traumatic brain injury can be rehabilitated. However, the secret of this success will depend upon the determination and perseverance of the survivor and his family because rehabilitation is hard work.

Following a brain injury, cognitive impairment can leave brain injury survivors with concentration, focus and confusion difficulties. Memory issues also are a problem. There may also be difficulties with problem solving abilities, making decisions, reading and writing, the ability to logically solve puzzles, fatigue, denial, mathematical skills and they may suffer from lack of motivation. Basic abilities such as perceptual skills and those dealing with attention will need to be strengthened before more advanced skills can be added to what they can already do. In some cases other areas of the brain will take over the function of the damaged area. This is particularly true in the case of children and young people.

Initially assessments will be done regarding speech, cognitive and behavioral difficulties and the ability to perform daily living chores. Many cognitive and communication problems will be treated while the patient is still in the hospital but may continue for some time after. Longer term therapy may be performed either on an individual basis or in groups, often at a rehabilitation facility. Other rehabilitation may be done at home by a visiting therapist or as an outpatient. It is usually considered best to be done in a setting that is familiar to the patient.

Rehabilitation is designed to assist brain injured patients in relearning lost skills or in learning different ways to do things. When possible, it is important if family members can be involved in the process. In some cases, this includes the availability of caregiver support services.

As part of the process, patients may receive physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy and task-specific training of cognitive deficits depending on the requirements of each individual.

Structure is a very important element in the life of a brain injured survivor; with structure their capabilities can be increased. It is important also, where bad behavior is a problem, that the patient be corrected. If poor behavior is allowed, it doesn't help the brain injured survivor and the end result could be that it may drive people away who might otherwise be able to help.

I believe that what gives the most liklihood of a more successful recovery is the survivor's ability to persevere and work hard.