Severe Brain Injury Family Resource Information
Severe brain injury, referred to as Disorders of Consciousness, is a family injury. The family members' lives are often drastically changed after injury, and taking care of a loved one in disorders of consciousness can be physically and emotionally draining. Because brain injury recovery is unpredictable this care may go on for months and even years. Some of the challenges families face include:
- Providing physical care (toileting, bathing, feeding, etc.)
- Managing work and home responsibilities
- Financial strain
- Finding time for self-care
Click on the links below to read more about family adjustment issues:
- Assess your personal comfort in caregiving tasks: Caregiver Comfort Scale // Escala de Comodidad del Cuidador (Español)
- Thoughts from families- read more
- Talking with children/teens about Disorders of Consciousness - read more
- Coping Strategies- please visit FAMILY CAREGIVER ALLIANCE for Tips on Self-Care
- Support Groups- read more
- Ways to Build Resilience- read more
- Guardianship versus Power of Attorney - read more
- Difficult Conversations - read more
- Resources for Support - read more
Sexuality & Intimacy
Sexuality and Intimacy are an important part of who we are as human beings and a brain injury can also impact this aspect of life. It is important to individualize your needs in this area, and below are several resources available to help you navigate this part of your brain injury journey.
- Sexuality After Traumatic Brain Injury - Fact Sheet
- Sex and Intimacy Resource List - External Resources
- Sexuality After Traumatic Brain Injury - Information/Education page
- Intimacy and Sexuality Following TBI: A Guide for Caregivers of Service Members & Veterans
- Sexual Functioning and Satisfaction after TBI: An Educational Manual
