Six Tips for Taking Care of a Loved One with Traumatic Brain Injury

 

It can be devastating to watch a loved one suffer a traumatic brain injury that leaves them bedridden. Some people can't handle the responsibilities of being the primary caretakers of relatives, but others throw their lives into the care of their loved ones. If you take this step, you need to know that it will be full of challenges, and in some cases, it may not get any better. This article has some tips to help you take care of your loved one who is bedridden from a TBI.

 

Gather Financial Support

 

Getting financial support may not be the first thing on your mind after your loved one gets injured. However, this is an important step that will be useful in the long term. First, you want to file a personal injury lawsuit against the guilty party. Reach out to Austin personal injury lawyers if someone's negligence caused the TBI. They may be able to help you sue for reasonable compensation. You should also consider government funding options like Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security disability insurance, and supplemental security income. Reexamine your insurance options and contact non-profit organizations that help TBI patients.

 

Learn About TBI

 

You can't properly care for your loved one with a TBI if you don't know anything about it. Educate yourself on the cause of your loved one's TBI and the most common symptoms to expect. A clear understanding of their medical condition will put you in a better position to manage their symptoms and provide the best possible care.

 

Encourage Rest and Relaxation

 

In the months and even years following the TBI, your loved one will need lots of rest. Create a comfortable space in your home that is quiet and free from stressors where they can relax. This will aid their recovery, especially if you help them establish and stick to a routine. Besides sleeping, introduce them to activities like yoga that help manage stress, as long as they can easily participate.

 

Manage Medications and Appointments

 

Your loved one with a TBI will most likely need to take medications and visit the doctors routinely for the rest of their lives. As their primary caregiver, you will be responsible for managing this effectively. Create a daily schedule and set reminders on your phone for every medication and appointment time. While doing all these, you should also remember to offer validation and emotional support to them.

 

Encourage Cognitive And Physical Rehabilitation

 

No matter the level of cognitive decline caused by the TBI, there are still some levels of cognitive rehabilitation they can explore if you help them. Research memory exercises, puzzles, and games that can improve their concentration. You should also help them to explore physical rehabilitation exercises. This is especially important if the TBI left them paralyzed. Help them regain as much function as they can through these rehabilitation programs.

 

Conclusion 

 

The role of a caregiver can be incredibly tasking. While providing your loved ones emotional, health, and physical support, you should not forget to take care of yourself. Rest when you need to, and ensure you are in good health if you want to be helpful to your loved one.