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A traumatic brain injury is caused by a blow to the head by an external force. Assaults, motor-vehicle accidents or even simple falls can result in traumatic brain injuries, mild to severe. Survivors of severe brain injuries usually experience loss of consciousness, or coma, and a myriad of symptoms that can require long-term care.
A survivor of severe tbi may experience one of more symptoms that can interfere with his ability to lead an independent life. Memory loss, impaired cognitive functioning, lack of impulse control, inappropriate sexual behaviors, extreme agitation, depression, anxiety, mood swings and confusion are just some of the possible symptoms. There may be physical impairments, such as poor balance, paralysis, speech problems, incontinence, vision and hearing problems. These symptoms can be severe enough to interfere with the person's ability to function independently and he may require constant supervision and/or assistance with daily living skills in order to live safely.
A family may be unable to give their loved one the constant care and supervision that he or she requires, but may feel that a nursing facility is not an acceptable solution. A good alternative may be an assisted living home, or group home. An assisted living home is a setting that is meant to mimic a home setting and help integrate the individual into the community.
If you are considering an assisted living home for your loved one, there are certain things you should l
ok for. Remember that choosing a home for a tbi survivor can be different from choosing a senior-care home. The resident may have no physical impairments at all. The deficits may be behavioral only. The survivor may be a young adult who would be much better suited for an assisted living home with other residents of similar age.
When you a looking at assisted living homes, first appearances are always important. If a home appears to be poorly maintained on the outside, chances are that the home is not well-maintained inside either.
Walk through the home and see if it is the type of home you would want to live in. Is it clean and attractive?
Are you welcome to drop in without notice to visit?
Is the menu appealing and nutritious?
Are the residents treated with respect? Talk with them, if possible, and ask them if they like living there. Ask if they like all the caregivers. Their answers may not be totally reliable, but they are usually a good indicator of the atmosphere of the home. Negative answers should, at least, spur you to inquire further.
Are the residents who are currently living there compatible? Do any of them have physical outbursts toward other residents?
Do your think your loved one would fit in with the other residents?
Are residents clean and well-groomed?
Are all the residents of similar age and need?
Is exercise encouraged on a daily basis?
How many outings are there on a regular basis? What kind of outings?
Are support groups available for those who are able to participate?
Does your loved one seem comfortable with the home setting?
Are residents encouraged to be as independent as possible? How is this accomplished?
How often are care plans reviewed? Do residents or family members have any input?
How is medication administration handled?
What is the protocol for emergency situations?
What training is required of the caregiver? Do they have experience with behavioral issues?
What transportation is available for dr and therapy appointments?
What is the complaint procedure?
Are self-directed activities, hobby materials and/or crafts available?
Who supplies personal toiletries, laundry services and cleaning?
Does the home contract with your insurance provider?
What is the procedure for terminating residency?
You will probably think of your own questions in addition to the ones above. Write them down so you can remember to inquire about them.
Lastly, go home and discuss your feelings about the home. It can be stressful for the family and the tbi survivor, so you should feel good about the choice you have made.