Changes after a Brain Injury
The following sections outline common thinking, perceptual, behavioural, emotional and communication changes as well as physical changes that can occur after a brain injury, and ways to help the person with brain injury cope with such changes (compensation strategies). These strategies build on the person’s strengths and work around (compensate for) deficits or problems that result from a brain injury.
Compensation strategies work best with a team approach that includes the person with brain injury, family members and other caregivers. Consistent and frequent repetition of these strategies by all caregivers increases the chance of success.
Each person is unique, so a technique that works well for one person may not work for another. Try one strategy for two or three weeks. If it does not work, try another suggested strategy or develop and try your own solution. If, after trying several solutions to a problem, nothing seems to work, ask a specialist to help you develop a different approach.
Visit the following sections to learn more about:
- Thinking changes
- Perceptual changes
- Behavioural changes
- Emotional changes
- Communication changes
- Physical effects
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