How to Help a Loved One Cope with a Catastrophic Injury

A catastrophic injury is characterized by damage to the central nervous system (CNS). This includes the brain and spinal cord. Damage to the skull or spine, which are responsible for protecting the CNS, could also constitute a catastrophic injury.  

Since the CNS plays a critical role in virtually every bodily function, damaging any portion of it can be utterly devastating. Permanent disabilities area likely, as are dramatic changes in the victim’s mood, behavior, and demeanor.  

If your loved one sustained a catastrophic injury in some kind of accident, it’s natural to feel hopeless. Just because you can’t erase what happened, however, doesn’t mean you can’t help them.  

There are a number of ways that family members can support a relative who is recovering from damage to their CNS. For some of the most effective strategies, read on: 

Foster Their Independence  

You may be inclined to do everything for your loved one, but that’s only going to stall their recovery. Talk to their medical providers about their limitations, so you know what kinds of tasks they’re going to need help completing. Otherwise, though, encourage them to do as much as possible for themselves. The more they do, the more they’ll be able to do, and in time, they may regain most, if not all, of their independence.  

Include Them in Social Gatherings 

It’s common for people who are recovering from serious injuries to isolate themselves. Since this will only worsen any depression or anxiety, it’s imperative that their loved ones don’t let them. Invite your relative to every social gathering that’s feasible for them to attend, and then make the arrangements needed to bring them along, so they don’t have to worry about a thing.   

Write Down Instructions for All Essential Tasks  

Catastrophic injuries and forgetfulness go hand-in-hand. Even if your loved one didn’t sustain brain damage, they’re under so much stress that letting minor things slip their mind is all but inevitable.  

You can alleviate the negative impact of having a foggy memory by writing down detailed instructions for various tasks and hanging them in the respective rooms where the steps are completed. For example, your loved one may appreciate having a step-by-step guide to getting ready in the morning hanging in their bathroom.  

Help Them Stick to a Predictable Routine  

When every day is more chaotic than the last, it hinders the healing process. Help your loved one establish a daily routine, and then do whatever you can to ensure they stick to it as closely as possible. It will inevitably be interrupted by doctor’s appointments and the like, but you can make sure to give them plenty of notice, so deviations from the norm don’t feel so hectic.   

Discuss Your Case with a Catastrophic Injury Attorney in California  

If your loved one wouldn’t have gotten hurt had someone acted with reasonable care, your family may have grounds for legal action. To determine how best to proceed, turn to Harris Personal Injury Lawyers.  

Our compassionate and resourceful team will leave no stone unturned when investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident. We’ll also stop at nothing when it comes to seeking the compensation you deserve. Call 1-800-GO-HARRIS or complete our Contact Form to set up a free case review with a catastrophic injury lawyer in California.