Welcome to our discussion on an incredibly important topic for seniors and their families: brain injuries. Understanding and addressing these issues is of utmost importance, particularly for seniors with a history of contact sports or accidental falls.
Today, we'll unearth details about two significant types of brain injuries—concussions and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Given their potential long-term impacts, it's essential that we fully understand these conditions, their causes, symptoms, and methods of treatment. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge, provide resources for medical assistance, and ensure a healthier, safer life for our seniors. But please remember that while this blog offers valuable information, it's not a substitute for medical advice from a qualified healthcare provider.
Let's get started.
What Are Concussions?
Also called traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), concussions are a type of brain injury that occurs when a blow to the head or body causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can create chemical changes in the brain and sometimes even damage brain cells. Seniors are particularly susceptible to concussions due to falls, making it a prevalent concern in this age group.
Concussions can manifest in different ways and the symptoms can quite vary. Headaches, confusion, and memory problems are some common signs. It's also significant to note that symptoms may not appear immediately but can develop hours or even days after the injury.
The long-term impacts of concussions, especially repeated ones, can be severe. They can lead to persistent headaches, sleep issues, and memory and concentration problems. In some cases, they can also contribute to long-term conditions such as depression and dementia.
When it comes to concussions, medical assistance is vital. If a senior shows signs of a concussion, they should be seen by a healthcare professional immediately.
What Is Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)?
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy, better known as CTE, is a degenerative brain condition associated with repeated head traumas. Although it's often linked to contact sports, it can result from any activity that involves frequent head injuries.
Similar to concussions, the symptoms of CTE can vary. They often include difficulty thinking, mood problems, and issues with balance and motor functions. However, these symptoms may not appear until years after the traumas happened, making CTE a challenging condition to diagnose.
Over time, CTE can have significant impacts, including the development of dementia-like symptoms. And while there's currently no cure for CTE, there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms.
As with concussions, early medical intervention is imperative for effective CTE treatment.
We're Here to Help
Understanding brain injuries like concussions and CTE, their symptoms, and long-term impacts is essential for seniors and their families. By being informed, we can help ensure that seniors receive the necessary medical attention and support they need.
The team at Senior Helpers Milford-Franklin is committed to assisting you on this journey. If you live in Milford, Franklin, Stoughton, Webster, or Sharon and need help caring for a senior with a debilitating brain injury, contact us today. Together, we can strive for a healthier, safer life for our seniors.