This sensitive book provides a much-needed compilation and description of OT programs for the care of individuals disabled by traumatic brain injury (TBI). Focusing on the disabled individual, the family, and the societal responses to the injured, this comprehensive book covers the spectrum of available services from intensive care to transitional and community living. Both theoretical approaches to the problems of brain injury as well as practical treatment techniques are explored in Occupatio…
This book offers an empowering approach to working with people with an acquired brain injury (ABI) based upon the views and perspectives of people with ABI themselves. Drawing upon Christine Durham's own ABI experience and Paul Ramcharan's engagement in disability research over a quarter of a century, this volume gives voice to 36 participants with ABI, as well as carers and other professionals from both urban and rural areas. This unique perspective provides a long-needed, empathic alternative…
An acquired brain injury (ABI) causes you to lose brain cells. This means that your remaining brain cells have to work harder to do the same kinds of activities as before your injury. Using alcohol and drugs affects how your brain works. If you have an ABI, using alcohol and drugs can have a serious effect on you and your recovery from ABI. This pamphlet explains how alcohol and drug use will affect you after an ABI and lists resources for getting help.
NSHA staff are offering a 2-part education session for people who have recently experienced a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) or concussion. This pamphlet explains who the session is for and how to sign up.
Fatigue (feeling very tired) is common after an ABI. You may feel fatigued by physical activity, cognitive (thinking) tasks, or just everyday activities. If you have problems with mood, speech, concentration, memory, vision, balance, or coordination, fatigue can make them worse. This pamphlet explains what causes fatigue after an ABI, different ways you may experience fatigue, things that can make fatigue worse, and tips for coping wiht fatigue. A list of resources is also provided.
Attention (focusing on things around you) helps you to do your daily activities and tasks. It is an important part of thinking. Problems with attention are very common after an ABI. This pamphlet explains different ways you may experience attention problems, things that can make attention problems worse, and tips for coping wiht attention problems. A list of resources is also provided.
Signs of perseveration include repeating or continuing an action, word, or movement. Sometimes this can be the continuation of a feeling or idea. For example, you may get “stuck” brushing your teeth, or bring up the same thing over and over. Perseveration can often affect daily activities and relationships. This pamphlet explains what you can do to help with perseveration and strategies that can help. A list of resources is also included.
Initiation is the ability to start an activity. Motivation is the desire to do an activity. Many people with an acquired brain injury (ABI) have trouble doing tasks or taking part in activities. This is often caused by a problem with initiation, not because you are not motivated. This pamphlet explains how problems with initiation may affect you and what you can do to help with initiation.
Anger is a natural emotion. People with an ABI sometimes have problems with anger. It is important to manage your anger. If you do not manage your anger, it can hurt your relationships and make it hard for you to do things (like work or take part in social activities). Tips for managing anger are provided. A list of resources to find services and supports is given.
The Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Day Treatment Program is a supportive group where you can: learn about ABI, learn ways to manage ongoing challenges related to your ABI, meet people with similar experiences, and explore your strengths. This pamphlet explains who the program is for, who is eligible, and the two parts of the program. Contact information is provided.
Memory has many parts. It includes taking in, storing, and recalling information. After an acquired brain injury (ABI), you may have changes in your memory. This is common. This pamphlet explains how memory changes might affect you, and tips for managing your memory. A resources section is included.