Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most devasting injuries that someone can suffer. It’s estimated that there are currently about 5.3 million people in the United States alone who are living with the aftermath of a TBI.
Their families also live with the consequences. When someone suffers a serious TBI, it automatically reshapes a lot of family dynamics.
The financial strain can be overwhelming
The ongoing medical costs of a TBI, which can last a lifetime, can be a huge financial strain. However, the financial burdens often go way beyond the obvious. Whether the TBI victim was the family’s major breadwinner or a homemaker, they may no longer be able to perform that function. The lost income or the need to hire help for housework or childcare can permanently upend a family’s overall economic stability.
There may be a drastic shift in family roles
The individual who sustained the injury may require constant care and support, causing a redistribution of responsibilities among family members. Spouses may transition into the role of primary caregiver, while children may need to take on additional responsibilities. This shift can lead to feelings of frustration, guilt and a sense of loss for both the injured person and their family members.
The strain can break some relationships
The strain of caring for a family member with a TBI can put a significant strain on relationships. The emotional exhaustion and constant demands can lead to increased tension and communication breakdowns. In some cases, the deterioration of marriages or parent-child relationships, especially if the TBI victim’s personality has drastically changed and they’ve become volatile.
When someone has suffered a traumatic brain injury due to another party’s mistakes, it’s critically important to get legal guidance when valuing related claims and pursuing fair compensation. One thing that should never be overlooked is the long-term consequences of a TBI on the family of the victim. The losses can be multifaceted, affecting everybody involved financially, emotionally and socially.