The course is divided into six modules, each building on the previous one to create a logical progression: from foundational knowledge (Module 1) to practical management (Modules 2-4), specialized topics (Module 5), and long-term strategies (Module 6).
Module 1: Brain Injury 101: This introductory module provides a foundational overview of the brain, types of injuries, and the physiological processes involved in ABI.
Specific Objectives:
• Identify key regions of the brain and their functions.
• Differentiate between types of brain injuries (e.g., traumatic vs. non-traumatic).
• Explain what occurs in the brain during an ABI event.
Detailed Content Outline:
• Section 1: Brain Anatomy – Overview of lobes (frontal, parietal, temporal, occipital), brainstem, and cerebellum; functions like movement, memory, and emotion regulation.
• Section 2: Types of Brain Injuries – Traumatic (e.g., concussions, falls) vs. acquired (e.g., strokes, infections); primary vs. secondary injuries.
• Section 3: Physiological Impact – Processes like swelling, bleeding, and neuronal damage; short-term vs. long-term effects.
• Activities and Assessment: Interactive diagram labeling; quiz on brain functions (10 questions); reflective prompt: “How might ABI affect daily life based on brain regions?”
Module 2: Understanding and Managing Change after Brain Injury: Explores the multifaceted changes individuals may face post-ABI and equips caregivers with management tools.
Specific Objectives:
• Recognize physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms.
• Understand causes and potential complications.
• Apply practical strategies for daily support.
Detailed Content Outline:
• Section 1: Physical Changes – Mobility issues, fatigue, sensory impairments; causes (e.g., nerve damage) and complications (e.g., chronic pain).
• Section 2: Cognitive Changes – Memory loss, attention deficits, executive function challenges; strategies like memory aids and routine structuring.
• Section 3: Emotional Changes – Mood swings, depression, anxiety; management techniques including communication tips and professional referrals.
• Activities and Assessment: Case study analysis (e.g., “How would you manage a loved one’s forgetfulness?”); self-assessment checklist for symptom recognition.
Module 3: Impact to Relationships and Family: Examines how ABI affects interpersonal dynamics and provides strategies for family adjustment.
Specific Objectives:
• Describe ABI’s relational impacts.
• Explain ambiguous grief and family adjustment processes.
• Implement strategies to strengthen relationships.
Detailed Content Outline:
• Section 1: Role of Relationships – Pre- and post-ABI dynamics; effects on intimacy, communication, and roles.
• Section 2: Family Adjustment – Stages of adaptation; dealing with ambiguous grief (e.g., mourning lost abilities while the person is alive).
• Section 3: Management Strategies – Communication techniques, family counseling, and building support networks; tips for maintaining healthy boundaries.
• Activities and Assessment: Group discussion prompt (adaptable for solo reflection: “Share a relationship challenge and a strategy”); quiz on grief stages.
Module 4:Challenges and Strategies for Caregivers: Description: Focuses on the caregiver’s experience, addressing emotional and practical burdens with coping tools.
Specific Objectives:
• Identify common caregiver emotions and stressors.
• Recognize signs of burden and burnout.
• Develop personalized coping strategies.
Detailed Content Outline:
• Section 1: Caregiver Changes – Emotional responses (e.g., guilt, anger); physical and mental health impacts.
• Section 2: Stress, Burden, and Burnout – Definitions, warning signs (e.g., exhaustion, isolation), and contributing factors.
• Section 3: Coping Strategies – Self-care routines, respite options, mindfulness exercises.
• Activities and Assessment: Burnout self-assessment tool; journaling exercise on personal stressors.
Module 5: Pediatric Brain Injury: Addresses ABI in children, highlighting differences from adults and key support areas.
Specific Objectives:
• Outline pediatric-specific challenges.
• Discuss impacts on development, education, and social life.
• Advocate effectively for children’s needs.
Detailed Content Outline:
• Section 1: Challenges in Children – Physical (e.g., growth delays), cognitive (e.g., learning disabilities), emotional (e.g., behavioral issues); contrasts with adult ABI.
• Section 2: School and Peer Groups – Navigating IEPs, bullying prevention, and social integration.
• Section 3: Healthy Sexuality and Advocacy – Age-appropriate discussions; steps for advocating in schools or healthcare.
• Activities and Assessment: Scenario-based quiz (e.g., “How to support a child returning to school?”); advocacy role-play prompt.
Module 6: Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Advocacy: Description: Covers long-term recovery processes and empowers caregivers as advocates.
Specific Objectives:
• Describe recovery stages and rehabilitation.
• Identify care team members.
• Apply the seven steps to advocacy.
