DOES IT MEAN THAT ALL IS WELL WHEN THE HEAD INJURED PERSON CAN LEAVE THE HOSPITAL AND GO HOME?
Many head injured persons have continued problems when they return to their home and family, particularly after severe head injuries producing prolonged coma. Problems with complex thinking, and with emotional instability and personality changes, are especially common. Both the head injured person and his/her family may be frustrated and disturbed by these continued difficulties. There may be setbacks in self-care and independence, or in progressing to a meaningful life style or livelihood. The rehabilitation team may suggest continued therapy as an outpatient, or as provided by a visiting therapist. Other resources exist which may assist the head injured person and his/her family to overcome the long-term problems which usually become apparent only when he/she returns home. One such resource is the Texas Head Injury Foundation which can provide emotional support to head injured people and their families and can help them find an appropriate rehabilitation setting.
