A Brain Injury at Home: What to Expect

Unlike many other injuries, the most traumatic or trying parts of a brain injury aren’t necessarily over when the patient and their family leave the hospital. Brain injuries can affect many different parts of a person’s ability to function mentally and physically, over the long term. This sudden change of self, and the issues of identity that come with it, will manifest most strongly after the patient has come home and is trying to live a normal life. Here are some common areas of life that can be affected after a brain injury.

Driving

This often taken for granted aspect of independence can become impacted after a brain injury. As you can imagine, many types of cognition are necessary for safe driving: visual abilities, reaction speed, auditory attention, problem solving, and physical dexterity. These are all things that can be adversely affected by a brain injury.

In some states, people with brain injuries must pass driving tests before they can get behind the wheel again. Some states may permanently revoke their license. Talk to your family member’s health care provider, if you have concerns about their driving. Here are some signs to look out for:

  • They are slow to recognize road hazards
  • They may drive at inappropriate speeds
  • They become easily confused or frustrated
  • They fail to notice signs or signals

Sexuality

Sexuality is an important part of adult relationships, but you may notice the sexuality of your partner or spouse changing after a brain injury. They may not understand when it is okay to kiss, hug, or express sexual feelings, or conversely, they may not recognize your sexual cues or desires. They may also lose sexual desire altogether.

While it can be difficult to discuss these issues, it is important to address them early on in your partner’s rehabilitation. With effective communication, you can work out many of these problems. Partners should also feel comfortable discussing this issue with social workers and health care professionals---although it can feel awkward, they are used to it and can provide helpful advice.

Returning to Work or School

The ability of the brain injured individual to go back to work or school depends on a number of factors. The severity of the injury, and the changes in their abilities are the most important ones to consider. The injured individual and their caretaker should consider their desire to go back to work, problem solving skills, social abilities, and ability to learn further training. If it’s possible, returning to work can certainly have benefits—those who have a job also have a source of self-esteem and a sense of contribution to society.

School can be somewhat easier to return to, for brain injured children, teens, or college students. Most schools have special education programs to accommodate children with different learning abilities. Being at a school can be beneficial for the child’s growth and interaction with peers, and their teacher has the ability to monitor their daily progress.

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