Falls are one of the most common causes of traumatic brain injury among people 65 years of age and older. They are also responsible for the greatest number of TBI-related hospitalizations. Many times, worsening symptoms of TBI are mistaken as “normal” aging and as a result, go untreated, leaving the older adult more susceptible to furthering complications. Senior care professionals need to know as much as they can about TBI and older adults to better ensure appropriate and effective care.
Rates of falls leading to TBI are higher over the age of 65 and the highest for those 75 years of age and older. Among these individuals, falls were the number one cause of TBI-related deaths. It’s important to understand the complications and health-related problems that are highly associated with TBIs among older adults living in senior care communities.
After a TBI, the individual may experience a number of physical complications including seizures, various infections, a buildup of fluids in the brain, damage to blood vessels, chronic headaches and vertigo. Care staff should monitor for these symptoms regularly, as they may worsen and lead to further or serious health problems.
Individuals may also experience a number of cognitive problems long after a traumatic brain injury has occurred. Care staff should monitor for changes in memory, reasoning, judgment, learning, attention and concentration. Any of these may decline. Problem-solving, decision-making or multi-tasking may become too difficult for the individual to engage in as might organizing, planning or beginning or completing tasks.
Caregivers should also be aware of changes that might take place in communication after a TBI. It is well-known that language and communication difficulties are common following TBIs. Individuals may experience anger, frustration, or depression due to difficulty understanding speech, organizing thoughts, or following conversations. Social, behavioral and emotional complications may also be the result of TBI-induced communication problems.
Beyond monitoring for these symptoms, another important aspect of care is to reduce risk of falls by installing handrails where needed, providing good lighting, removing clutter and encouraging regular exercise.
Senior care professionals can help individuals who have suffered a TBI not only rehabilitate, but lead purposeful and quality-filled lives.