Spotlight report: the challenge of living with an acquired brain injury
Download (PDF 1.32 MB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch Rotherham worked with Headway Rotherham to understand the experiences of people with an acquired brain injury in Rotherham.
Key findings
People felt that many people, including healthcare professionals, don’t understand ABI. They make assumptions and don't listen.
Mental health often overlaps with acquired brain injury as both occur due to a disorder in the brain. This can cause problems with diagnosis and access to treatment, with some professionals confusing them as the same thing.
People felt that communication from health services was often confusing and difficult to understand. They said that important letters were too technical, inconsistent, or lacked key information, making it hard to understand their care.
Social isolation after an acquired brain injury is common. It can be caused by many different factors including others being unable to accept the changes in the person, or due to difficulties being in certain environments or physical challenges. Emotional and behavioural changes can make keeping friendships difficult, especially as the condition can result in a lack of empathy and irritability.
ABI doesn’t just affect individuals - it reshapes the lives of their loved ones. Family members often become full-time carers but without the guidance or support they need.