March is Brain Injury Awareness Month: know the risks and prevention strategies

Mar 27

Brain injuries can have life-altering consequences, affecting a person’s memory, coordination, speech, and overall well-being. March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, and the Town of Reading is raising awareness about the causes, symptoms, and ways to prevent these serious injuries.

What is a brain injury?

Brain injuries are categorized into two types:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): These result from external trauma, such as a fall, sports injury, or car accident.
Non-traumatic Brain Injuries: These are caused my medical conditions like strokes, seizures, oxygen deprivation, tumors, or substance abuse.

Common causes of brain injuries

Brain injuries can happen for a variety of situations, including:

Sports and recreational activities
Car accidents
Slips and falls
Military combat explosions
Workplace accidents

Helping seniors prevent falls and concussions

Falls are the leading cause of brain injuries among older adults. Here are simple but effective steps to help seniors stay safe:

Removing tripping hazards like throw rugs
Improve lighting in living spaces to reduce fall risks
Use assistive devices such as handrails, grab bars, and raised toilet seats
Regularly review medications with a doctor to prevent dizziness or imbalance
Stay physically active to maintain strength and coordination
Wear sensible, well-fitted shoes to prevent slips

Recognizing the symptoms of a brain injury

Brain injuries aren’t always immediately obvious, but recognizing the signs can be crucial. Common symptoms include:

Loss of consciousness
Headaches, confusion, and memory problems
Slurred speech and inappropriate emotional responses
Blurred vision and coordination issues
Vomiting, lethargy, and slow pulse or breathing

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms after a head injury, seek medical attention immediately.

Stay informed and stay safe

Brain injuries can happen to anyone, but awareness and prevention can save lives. To learn more, visit the NIH website (link from the flyer) or visit the Brain Injury Association of America for resources and support.