Acquired Brain Injury

What is an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)?

An acquired brain injury is a brain injury that happens after birth and is not hereditary, congenital, or degenerative. Acquired brain injuries include both traumatic and non-traumatic brain injuries, affecting individuals differently.

Every brain injury is unique, and the same injury can affect two people differently. The effects of brain injury are often quite hidden and not always obvious to others. 

Traumatic vs. non-traumatic brain injuries 

Traumatic brain injuries result from external forces, such as a head injury. Non-traumatic injuries include internal factors like brain haemorrhage or brain tumours.

Common Acquired Brain Injury symptoms

The duration of symptoms associated with an ABI can vary. Some milder cases can recover fully in 3 months, and for more serious cases, the recovery can take several years, and some people will experience symptoms associated with an ABI for the rest of their lives.

Symptoms vary widely, including:

• Cognitive deficits
• Motor skill degradation
• Behavioural issues
• Memory loss
• Issues with executive functioning
• Visual challenges
• Seizures
• Emotional changes
• Changes in bodily function 

Personalised support for clients with Acquired Brain Injury

At Comfort Keepers, we recognise the challenges that someone with an ABI may face and how important a routine is on the road to recovery. We can provide personal care support, including washing, dressing, and grooming. 

We also provide practical care, including shopping and household chores. Support carers can also assist clients with organising their daily routines, partaking in hobbies, going to events, and maintaining an active social life.

Cognitive and physical rehabilitation for ABI

Comfort Keepers’ home support plan is designed to meet each client’s unique needs for acquired brain injury care. Our carers can assist with cognitive rehabilitation tasks, including memory work, speech therapy, and physical therapy exercises. 

We also support clients with mobility aids and adaptive equipment to encourage independence while managing complications related to their brain injury.

Collaborative rehabilitation plans

Comfort Keepers have experienced clinical nurse managers who care for people with ABI. We actively work with HSE health care professionals to support our clients’ individual rehabilitation plans.

We’re here to help

For tailored acquired brain injury care that promotes independence and recovery, Comfort Keepers is here to help. To learn more, contact us or visit Acquired Brain Injury Ireland for additional resources.