The human brain weighs only 3 pounds, 75% of which happens to be water, yet it produces enough energy to power a light bulb and to process information at a speed as much as 268 miles per hour. Our brains are probably the most unbelievable, intricate, and mysterious parts of our bodies. Yet one strong thump may be all it takes to produce irreparable damage.
In honor of Brain Injury Awareness Month, Compassionate Care Home Health Services offers resources and education on the sometimes hidden signs of brain injury. While to the average observer, someone struggling with a mild brain injury could appear perfectly normal, the effects on memory, thinking, movement, and much more can last for a very long time. And surprisingly, most head injuries occur through what neurologist Viet Nguyen refers to as “non-dramatic incidents” – falling out of bed, bumping into a car door, along with other superficially innocuous events.
Oftentimes, these individuals received medical attention after the head bump and never gave it another thought. The dizziness and headache disappears, but the long term effects remain unnoticed, eventually causing social struggles. Difficulties may take the form of continuing communication or behavioral issues. Friends may comment that the individual’s personality seems to have changed since the head injury. Normal, everyday activities may also present a struggle.
If you notice any of these issues in a loved one that has sustained a head injury, seek further medical attention. Additionally, professional home care agencies with caregivers trained in head injury care such as Compassionate Care Home Health Services can act as a lifeline. Home care can help individuals experiencing confusion, exhaustion, or cognitive functioning issues by assisting with cooking, housecleaning, transportation, and personal care. Home care also offers respite for family members, who can very quickly become overwhelmed in trying to manage all the needs of someone they care about in addition to their own needs.
Contact the Michigan home care providers at Compassionate Care Home Health Services to learn more information on how we can help improve quality of life for adults with brain injuries and their family members.