Trauma Brain Injury

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a disability category that occurs as the result of an injury to the brain as a result of an accident, insufficient oxygen, poisoning or infection at any time during an individual’s life. It does not include congenital or degenerative brain injuries or brain injuries caused by birth trauma. Traumatic brain injuries may result in impairment in cognition, language, social skills, memory, attention, reasoning, behavior, physical functioning, psychological functioning, information processing, or speech. Physical challenges can include ambulation, balance, coordination, fine motor skills, strength, and endurance. Medical and neurology specialists determine a diagnosis using behavioral and neuropsychological assessments. In addition to rehabilitation services, individuals with TBI are treated with many of the services and supports as individuals with developmental disabilities. Outcomes vary by level of injury, with the goal for many being to return to school or to work, but with new and different levels of support.