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p) Practice wisdomNext Post Test)

People working with people with ABI have considerable practice wisdom. The following has been distilled in discussions with people with ABI, their family, friends, support workers and case managers.

Family members

  • Having a family member with a brain injury is one of the most serious challenges a family can face.
  • Families cope in many different ways.
  • Learn about acquired brain injury.
  • The person with the ABI will be the same but different.
  • Understanding how they are different is a key part of moving on.
  • The person with the ABI needs to be part of the decision making.
  • Identify specific strategies that help you deal with specific problems (labelling drawers, using memory aids, etc -
  • Creatively find ways around ongoing difficulties and see this as steps towards recovery
  • You are part of a wider team of people.
  • Sharing information will help with the provision of services.
  • Gains are possible but often slow in coming.
  • All members of the family have needs. Understand your family dynamics and your family's needs.
  • Everyone in the family will go through loss, grief and re-discovery.
  • The process of coping with a family member with an ABI constantly changes.
  • Families often have less stress when they actively try to find solutions to problems than when they avoid the problems trying not to think about it or avoiding dealing with it.
  • Looking after yourself is essential. Notice what forms of practical and emotional support your need and how to get them.
  • Having a break is OK.
  • It is OK to ask.
  • It is OK to complain.
  • Don't get swamped by information - look for useful information when it will be relevant to you.

Further practice wisdom

    6. Practice Wisdom (opens in new window)

For the person with with ABI
Family members
Friends
Workers
Information and referral workers
Case managers
Managers