According to Better Health Victoria, an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) refers to any type of brain damage that occurs after birth. It can include damage sustained by infection, disease, lack of oxygen or a blow to the head.
How can a brain injury occur?
Typically brain injuries occur through strokes or drug and substance abuse, however they can also be as a result of a big impact through head trauma like an act of violence or car accident.
It is common for many people with ABI to experience increased fatigue (mental and physical) and some slowing down in how fast they can process information, plan and solve problems. They may experience changes to their behaviour, personality, physical and sensory abilities, or thinking and learning.
Symptoms of an acquired brain injury
- weakness, shaking, stiffness or poor balance.
- tiredness.
- changes in sleep patterns.
- headaches.
- changes in vision or smell or touch.
Are there complications of head injuries?
Most people recover from a head injury after a few days. But you may have some symptoms afterwards, including:
- feeling dizzy or nauseous
- balance problems
- problems concentrating
- memory problems or forgetfulness
- feeling angry, anxious, stressed or emotional
- feeling very tired or having no energy
A traumatic brain injury can bring with it all sorts of challenges. A person’s balance may be off; they may have lost part of their field of vision; or his memory might be so compromised that within moments of seeing or hearing something, the memory or thought has disappeared.
Can assistive technology help people with a brain injury?
Assistive technology supports people with brain injury by providing them a way to be more independent and social. You can use assistive technology to get out and about, participate in recreational and social activities, learn, work and communicate with others.
There are many assistive technology products & services that can assist individuals with a brain injury to live more confidently and safely in society;
- Wheelchairs, scooters, and walkers to assist with mobility and increase independence.
- Computer programs like voice recognition and screen enlargement programs which assist people with mobility and vision problems.
- Bigger or easier to use on/off switches on electronic devices to make it possible for adults and children with limited motor skills to turn on certain technology, toys and activities.
- Devices to assist a person with daily living tasks, such as cooking, dressing, and grooming are available for people with special needs. For example, a medication dispenser with an alarm can be set to remind a person with memory issues to take daily medication.
- Safety devices like a personal alarm to help a person to contact emergency services in the case of a medical emergency or accident.
Join MePACS 24/7 response service
MePACS 24/7 Medical Response Alarm Service
The diagnosis of a brain injury can be a difficult time for all concerned. With the added security of a personal alarm service with 24/7 response can provide an individual and their loved ones with vital reassurance that in an emergency - quick assistance is available, anytime day or night.
MePACS is a monitored personal medical alarm service is trusted by over 45,000 clients Australia wide and backed by a public health provider, so all profits go back into the public health system.
A personal alarm provides additional safety and reassurance. In an emergency, a MePACS personal alarm enables the client to make quick and easy contact at the press of one button, to the response centre anytime day or night. They will be responded to by caring and trained operator within 2 minutes of their alarm being pressed & we will organise the necessary assistance for them.
MePACS is a national personal alarm provider based in Australia. Our medical alarms are lightweight, comfortable, convenient and ensure our clients have a quick and easy way to signal for help if they are feeling unwell.
What makes MePACS medical alarms a great choice for someone who has a brain injury:
- No Lock-in Contracts, so if you only need it for a couple months that’s okay.
- We offer guaranteed 24/7 Fast Response by our trained professionals, who will respond to you anytime day or night
All you need to do is press the alarm and our response team will answer within 2 minutes - Home and Mobile Alarms available
Feel safer in the comfort of your own home and when you are out and about - We keep in touch until help has arrived
Providing a reassuring, comforting voice at the end of the phone line - Our system works independently of the NBN so no need for a phone line
With a built in SIM card. our alarms can be used anywhere with sufficient mobile coverage in Australia - Key lock safes available
Ensure that emergency services can access your property quickly and safely
*This information does not intend to replace advice from a qualified health professional. Speak to your GP first about any health concerns.