Brain Injury Awareness in Greensboro

Did you know that March is Brain Injury Awareness Month?

What is a TBI and How Does it Happen?

TBI is short for traumatic brain injury. It is a type of injury that occurs when the brain’s functioning is interrupted by a sudden, external force. This can happen from a blow to the head or penetration of the skull. Just because you bump your head and have a headache does not mean you suffered a TBI. The general threshold is a disruption to how the brain functions. This means the injury may affect the physical integrity, metabolic activity, or functional ability of nerve cells in the brain. Anyone can suffer from a TBI; however, those aged 75 and older have the highest rates of TBI-related hospitalizations at 32%.

The most common causes of TBI are falls, assaults, car accidents, and sports injuries. Falls account for roughly 50% of all TBI-related hospitalizations. Griswold can help with fall prevention. Our Caregivers can assist with placing night lights in dark areas of the home, help place non-slip mats in frequently traversed areas of the home, and assist with active motion activities.

How to Promote Healthy Aging After Suffering a Brain Injury

The following list provides 10 ways to promote successful aging for those who have suffered a TBI:

• Exercise: This can help reduce the risk of falling.
• Brain health: Keep your brain active with new hobbies.
• Heart health: Several cardiovascular risk factors are also factors for Alzheimer’s.
• Advocate: Join advocacy groups in your local community.
• Nutrition: Adopt a healthy diet to help cognitive health.
• Mental health: Address mental health concerns as they arise.
• Protect the brain: Use helmets, seatbelts, and enroll in a fall risk assessment.
• Socialize: Avoid social isolation and maximize opportunities for love and laughter.
• Avoid drugs and alcohol: Many substances can make brain injuries worse.
• Learn more: Learning helps the synaptic connections in your brain.

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 are living with a TBI in Greensboro or the surrounding area, we can help. Whether it’s giving you a break with our respite care or all day and night with around-the-clock care. We are here to support you. We can come to your home or support you inside another facility. Our excellent Caregivers provide personal care, homemaking, and companionship to help you and your family live assured. Call today to learn more!