What is the best way for caregivers, family, and friends to help with memory problems after a brain injury?
An important role that families and caregivers can play in helping somebody with a memory problem after brain injury is to meet them where they're at. Rather than having an idea of how they ought to be doing, try attending to how they are doing and coming up with strategies that use their best strengths, as well as the best parts of the environment to help them be strong. This is far more effective than trying to encourage them to be something that they may not be any more or be able to be. Focus on where you find the person and what they're able to do and use that to its best advantage.
Related Resources
About the author: David Arciniegas, MD
Dr. David Arciniegas is a psychiatrist in Gunnison, Colorado and is affiliated with TIRR Memorial Hermann. He received his medical degree from University of Michigan Medical School and has been in practice for more than 20 years. He is one of 2 doctors at TIRR Memorial Hermann who specialize in Psychiatry.
