Brain damage is a family affair

Abstract

Behavioral alterations due to brain damage that compromise the quality of patients' lives also affect the well-being of patients' families. Family distress following head injury has been well-documented. With other cerebral disorders, similar emotional burdens and family disruptions are experienced by the immediate family. Most families suffer many of the core problems arising from the patient's dependency and cognitive inefficiency, and from social reactions to the patient's disability. Moreover, emotional disturbances and executive disorders associated with the site or nature of the lesion(s) affect patients' interaction with their families differentially creating distinctive patterns of family burden. Specific family problems may be relieved through education, counselling, and emotional support.