Traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients require a complex kind of care. If you are caring for a loved one who sustained TBI, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
For one, if someone’s negligence caused your loved one’s brain injury, they may be entitled to compensation. Take note that even a mild concussion can change the victim’s life. You can talk to a brain injury attorney based in Los Angeles or any city where the incident occurred. They will help your loved one file for a legal claim and get just compensation.
Also, there are other things to keep in mind if you are the primary caregiver of a TBI patient. Here are a few reminders:
Always try to be patient.
Some TBI caregivers find themselves always having to repeat things they already said. Know that most TBI patients will experience problems related to memory, coping, and awareness. Some easily forget things while others are extra irritable. Try to be patient and keep in mind that these behaviors are all caused by their injury.
Don’t say things that can hurt your loved one’s feelings.
Brain injuries have many invisible signs, such as irritability, fatigue, depression, insomnia, memory problems, and even anxiety. Some traumatic brain injury patients also have apathy, which is a lack of emotion, interest, or motivation.
You need to be careful in choosing your words when talking to a brain injury patient. Avoid telling them they are lucky to be alive or only to think positively. Refrain from calling them names, such as lazy or grump. Also, avoid telling them they look fine or normal as this clearly won’t help them go through this difficult stage.
Do stick to a routine.
Brain injury patients need to eat a healthy diet, keep themselves hydrated, get enough sleep, and avoid mental and physical exertion. By sticking to a routine, they will know what to expect and what can happen next. So, as much as possible, serve meals at the same time each day and stick to a nighttime routine. Also, keep them from overexerting themselves during recovery. There are other ways to ease their boredom without putting themselves at risk for another head trauma.
Don’t challenge aggressive behaviors.
Sometimes, TBI patients can have hostile behaviors. As much as possible, never challenge, but learn to negotiate. Validate their feelings and show extra love and support. You can offer alternative ways to express their negative feelings. Ask them how you can help address their frustration. If the disruptive behavior continues, consider their safety as well as your own by isolating them.
There is no easy way to care for someone who incurred a traumatic brain injury. But with your love and support, they can recover faster and realize they are not alone in their battle. Apart from helping your loved one get the right compensation they deserve, be patient, and shower them with encouraging words. A strict routine and proper intervention are also what your loved one needs during this challenging time.
