When assisted living is mentioned, people generally think of elderly people needing help with day to day responsibilities such as housekeeping, laundry and making meals. Assisted living is not just for the elderly, though; people suffering from traumatic brain injury (TBI) are often in need of assisted living.

When is Assisted Living Needed?
Some individuals living with TBI are mostly independent but may need assistance for certain activities. Assisted living provides that person with the autonomy they desire while, at the same time, ensuring they are safe and well-cared for. When a person needs help with the activities of daily living (ADLs), assisted living is a suitable alternative. These activities may include eating, bathing, dressing, medication and household activities, such as laundry and housekeeping.

Group Home vs. Assisted Living                                       
Assisted living is generally provided in an apartment-type setting. The individual has his or her own room, sometimes cooking facilities as well. In a group home environment, fewer people reside in the facility. These establishments are generally privately owned and licensed to offer care to 6 -10 people. Group homes may be preferred by those who are interested in more one-on-one care for the person with TBI. They often have a more family-like atmosphere.

Assisted living facilities serve considerably more people. These places generally work with you to create a service plan when the individual is admitted to the facility. The service plan is a detailed list of services the resident requires. The facility agrees to supply those services and the plan is reviewed and updated on a regular basis for the benefit of the resident.

Finding the Right Assisted Living Accommodations
There are several ways to go about finding the information needed for assisted living. TBI support groups, for individuals and their caregivers, are a good way to learn, by word-of-mouth, which resources are the most efficient and offer the best services. The Brain Injury Association of Florida is an organization that provides information and support for Floridians living with TBI, and for their family members.  The Florida Institute for Neurologic Rehabilitation, Inc., is another organization which can help with assisted living.

Talk to your healthcare providers, also. Those who are helping you or your loved one with the brain injury will have resources you can tap into for assistance. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice or assistance in locating the services you need.

Many times traumatic brain injury is the result of an accident or event in which the individual was not at fault. In these cases of personal injury, you need compassionate lawyers on your side. For high-quality legal service provided by caring attorneys, contact Frohlich, Gordon & Beason, P.A. The initial consultation is complimentary. Call on us for legal representation of your personal injury case. We serve residents of Southwest Florida, with offices located in Port Charlotte, North Port, and Englewood.