Caring for a Loved One at Home

For many families, the brain injury journey continues at home

Adjusting to caring for a loved one living with a brain injury at home can take time. As a caregiver, your role may include helping with daily tasks, providing supervision, or coordinating care. Every situation is different, and your responsibilities may change over time. It is okay to feel unsure at first. Setting up a care plan can make daily life more manageable. Depending on your loved one’s needs, this may include arranging for daytime or nighttime care, helping with personal tasks like bathing and toileting, or learning how to safely move or transfer them. You may also need to become familiar with medical equipment or supplies used at home.

You do not have to figure everything out on your own. Ask your loved one’s medical team about training and support so you feel more confident providing care.

You may ask for training on how to:

• Help with feeding or feeding tubes
• Manage medications and symptoms
• Support swallowing or bowel and bladder needs
• Prevent and care for skin issues or muscle tightness

Download our full checklist of tips and recommended actions for caring for a loved one at home after a brain injury.

Making small changes at home can improve safety

Creating a safe home environment is an important part of care. An occupational therapist can help evaluate your home and suggest changes based on your loved one’s needs.

Simple changes may include:

• Removing fall risks and improving lighting
• Installing grab bars or ramps
• Setting up door alarms if your loved one may wander outside
• Using appliances with automatic shut-off features
• Posting signs or reminders to support memory
• Creating a quiet space for rest and breaks
• Using unbreakable or shatterproof dishes and cups.

These changes can help prevent injury and support independence.

Compassionate answers. Real support. Every step of the way.

Contact the National Brain Injury Information Center at 1-800-444-6443 to speak to a specialist about:

• Help with care needs
• Legal and financial resources
• Services in your community