Raising Awareness of Brain Health in Gilbert and Chandler

The most common cause of a traumatic brain injury is a fall.

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a head injury that affects how the brain functions. They are typically caused by a sudden, external force. This can happen from a fall, motor vehicle accident, or assault. For a better idea of what classifies as a TBI, a mild TBI is also referred to as a concussion.

Did you know that Griswold Caregivers can support you with fall prevention in your home? Call today to learn more about our fall prevention and recovery services.

Mental Health and TBI

Most TBIs are non-life-threatening; however, they may still have long-lasting effects. Ranging from physical, cognitive, behavioral, and emotional effects in older adults. Roughly 20% of those who experienced a mild TBI experienced mental health symptoms up to six months after. Depression was the most common diagnosis, followed by anxiety disorders, PTSD, irritability, adjustment disorder, and substance abuse.

Since mental health issues usually start within six months after a TBI, intervening early is vital. A good place to start is seeing your primary care physician, who may suggest an in-depth neuropsychological assessment. This will help identify symptoms and create a tailored treatment plan. Treatment plans may include:

• Screenings
• Referrals to mental health resources
• Symptom management
• Tracking
• Assessment of barriers to care
• Crisis planning
• Social support

Another important aspect of managing mental health conditions and other TBI-related symptoms includes regular exercise (if permitted by your PCP), a healthy diet, and good sleep habits.

The Veterans Administration and TBI

Did you know that the Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that 15%-20% of Veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan have experienced a TBI?

If you are a Veteran living with a TBI, consider reaching out to the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System. They are recognized as a Polytrauma/TBI Network Site. They offer post-acute rehabilitation services to eligible Veterans across Arizona, New Mexico, and Southern California. Residents of Chandler, Gilbert, or Ahwatukee who need assistance with a brain injury may find that they qualify for these services. Whether you’re coming from a more intensive rehabilitation facility after a severe TBI or are looking for support following a mild to moderate TBI, their dedicated team is committed to providing personalized rehabilitation care that addresses your physical, cognitive, and mental health needs following head trauma.

If you are a Veteran seeking home care, we can help! We are a VA-approved service provider. Call us today to learn how we can help you get the benefits you may be missing out on.

How Does In-Home Care Help?

If you or someone you care about is recovering from a brain injury in Gilbert, Chandler, or the surrounding areas, Griswold is here to lend a hand. While we do not provide medical care, we offer in-home services such as personal care, homemaking, and companionship, all delivered by our excellent and compassionate Caregivers. Our mission is to create an environment where you feel safe and supported.

Whether you need just a few hours of help each week with respite care in Chandler or full-time support through live-in care in Ahwatukee, we are dedicated to meeting your needs. We encourage you to reach out to us today to discuss how we can work together to develop a personalized care plan that suits your situation. In many instances, we can arrange for a Caregiver to be in your home within 24 hours. Let us help you find the support you deserve.