Brain Injury and Maintaining Home Safety

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Challenges:

• Difficulty with balance and coordination, which can increase the risk of falls

• Changes in cognitive function, such as memory loss or confusion, which can make it difficult to navigate the home or complete tasks

• Changes in sensation, such as numbness or tingling, which can make it difficult to sense potential hazards or understand one's surroundings

• Changes in behavior or mood, such as impulsivity or aggression, which can make it difficult to control one's actions and maintain a safe home environment

Preventing Home Fires:

• Cognitive impairment, such as memory loss or confusion, which can make it difficult for the individual to remember to turn off appliances or properly handle flammable materials

• Physical impairment, such as difficulty with fine motor skills or balance, which can make it difficult to maneuver around the home and use equipment safely

• Behavioral changes, such as impulsivity or aggression, which can lead to reckless or dangerous actions that increase the risk of fire.

Solutions:

• Installing smoke alarms and fire extinguishers

• Creating and practicing an emergency evacuation plan

• Providing training on fire safety

• Supervising the individual with brain injury when they're handling fire, cooking or using any equipment that could cause a fire.

• Having a professional assess the home for fire hazards and make recommendations for safety improvements.

• Home modifications such as handrails, stairlifts, and ramps to assist with mobility

• Assistive technology such as alarms and reminder systems to help with daily tasks and managing the environment

• Support system with family members, caregivers, and professionals to help with the identification and management of these challenges.

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