What is Acquired Brain Injury?
An acquired brain injury is an injury to the brain that has happened since birth. External forces or internal disorders cause them. External forces may include road traffic accidents or other violent trauma which involves severe shaking or hitting of the head, conflict and fighting. Internal or non-traumatic brain injuries include those caused by strokes, brain tumours, infectious diseases and the effects of toxic substances that have entered the body, either ingested through the mouth or inhaled, such as carbon monoxide or other chemicals.
Brain injury can have a devastating effect. Each person will have a different combination of disabilities depending on the type of injury and its effect, age, pre-injury circumstances, personality, living environment and the extent and nature of any rehabilitation received.
Difficulties with memory, concentration and communication are almost always features of brain injury. People may also experience a variety of changes in personality, behaviour and emotions. It is likely that all of the above symptoms will persist for many years after an injury and, for many people, will be life-long. As a result, people with brain injury are generally more dependent on others than they were prior to their injury.
Socially, people can become very isolated and returning to work, even if it is possible, can be problematic. The cognitive, behavioural and emotional impact of acquired brain injury can result in:
- loss of independence;
- reliance on others;
- inability to take part in community activity;
- difficulty in fulfilling roles;
- strain on relationships;
- isolation;
- little sympathy or understanding from society in general
Providing Support
Individuals with acquired brain injury are likely to require care and support on a long-term basis, although the nature of this support may vary over time. Potensial offers a service to people with a wide range of needs, including those who require long-term support and others who required intensive support in the short term, for example after leaving hospital.
Further Information
We hope that you found this information useful and informative but should you wish to discuss anything please do not hesitate to contact us.
