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A New Type of Caregiving
Mothers are the stereotypical caregivers used to nurturing family members through illnesses or after surgery. Famous American artist, Norman Rockwell, painted the mother/caregiver carrying hot soup to a sick child’s bedside. The bed was strewn with books and games to entertain the ailing child and there were bottles of medication on the table for a quick recovery.
Caregiving for a person with a brain injury is very different from that image. Most persons with a brain injury are not in bed for a long time. They may not even be sick or physically impaired. Their appearance of physical recovery or well-being often makes it harder for others to recognize their needs for assistance and support.
Caregivers find that changes in how an individual thinks and learns after a brain injury can make it more difficult for the person to initiate, organize, and follow through with what were previously very simple tasks such as:
· bathing and personal care
· dressing for weather conditions
· structuring and planning daily activities
· meal planning and preparation
· time management
· proper use of medication
· transportation
· recreation and socialization
