Does Age Affect Recovery from Brain Injuries?

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month. The perfect time to learn more about traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and how they affect the lives of those who suffer from one.

TBIs are any head injuries that disrupt normal brain functioning. They can range from mild to severe. They are often caused by falls, motor vehicle collisions, or assaults. Mild TBI is better known as a concussion. Read on to learn more facts about TBI, how age factors into recovery time, and local resources near Burlington to help you.

Facts About TBI

• Concussions occur more frequently than you think. Per the BIAA, someone in the US suffers a brain injury every nine seconds.
• Concussion symptoms aren’t always obvious. This is due to the overlap of symptoms in other medical conditions. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, ringing in the ears, vision problems, sleep difficulties, depression, anxiety, and slowed reaction time.
• Sleep disturbances are common after concussions. Almost 60% of concussion patients experience sleep difficulties.
• Alcohol and caffeine can impact recovery. After a TBI, your tolerance for alcohol can be reduced. Consuming too much caffeine when your brain is recovering can also interfere with recovery. It is recommended to reduce caffeine intake to 100 mg or less per day while concussed.
• Screen time impacts recovery. Avoiding screen time in the first 48 hours of suffering a concussion can greatly reduce the duration of symptoms.
• Driving skills can be impacted. This is due to potential problems from symptoms such as vision problems, balance issues, nausea, and slowed reaction times.

Does Age Matter in Recovery?

Anyone can suffer a TBI at any age. That being said, older age is a risk factor for TBIs and also for recovering from them. A large reason for this is due to regular age-related changes and decreased brain plasticity as we age. Other factors include:

• A higher risk for brain bleeds
• Slower recovery rates
• Higher level-of-care needs
• A greater likelihood of existing medical/mental health issues that worsen functioning
• A higher risk for mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and other neurological disorders

Local Resources

Brain Injury Association of North Carolina – They strive to create a better future for the approximately 208,000 North Carolinians living with brain injury through prevention, support, education, and advocacy programs. You can often find them at community events, hospitals, day programs, legislative buildings, senior centers, schools, law enforcement buildings, conferences, community meetings, and more!

Cone Health – The brain injury program at Cone Health Rehabilitation Center at Moses Cone Hospital is accredited by CARF International. You’ll receive evidence-based care that respects your family’s strengths, needs, and preferences. You’ll also have access to comprehensive services, resources, and information. They also host a support group for Guilford County.

Griswold Can Help

If you or someone you care about is dealing with challenges from a TBI in Burlington or the surrounding areas, Griswold is here to help you Live Assured. While we don’t provide medical services, our in-home care options include personal care, homemaking, and companionship from our experienced Caregivers. Our mission is to ensure you feel safe and supported.

Whether you require a few hours of respite care in Burlington each week or need assistance around the clock with live-in care, we’re here for you. Contact us today at (336) 860-7936 to learn how we can develop a personalized care plan that suits your needs. In many cases, we can have a Caregiver at your home within 24 hours.