Recovery
To recover means to make progress as compared to the initial condition, taking into consideration opportunities for improving their condition. Several factors influence the length of recovery following a TBI. Generally speaking, the length of recovery process depends on the systems affected. [1]
• Physical recovery usually occurs during the first six months.
• Intellectual recovery usually occurs over the 12-month period following the TBI.
• Behavioural recovery usually occurs during the first two years after the TBI. The behavioural changes are the most difficult aspect of the TBI for victims and their families.
• Recovery often remains incomplete, with some deficits persisting.
Other factors can be grouped into four categories. [2]
Demographic factors
• Age
• Language
• Culture
• Person’s financial situation
• Marital status: married, single, with or without children
• Profession: labourer, unemployed, professional, etc.
Physical factors linked to the injury
• Severity of the TBI
• Number of symptoms
• Results on the Glasgow Coma Scale (a tool used by the care team to assess the injury’s severity)
• Results of the CT scan (computerized tomography is a technology that uses a series of computerized x-rays to detect brain damage)
• Number of prior TBIs
• Health problems before the injury
• Other injuries due to the accident
• Post-traumatic pain and headaches
Personal and psychological factors (consequences involving emotions and strength of character)
• Mental state before the TBI
• Depression/anxiety after the TBI
Environmental factors
• Presence or absence of a paying agent (SAAQ, CSST)
• Support of family and friends
• Access to care and services
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