Negligent maintenance of a business’s premises can have detrimental effects on the safety and well-being of its patrons in North Carolina. Whether it is snow, ice, uneven concrete or buckled rugs, these hazards significantly increase the chances of a slip and fall.
Unfortunately, even minor falls can leave victims dealing with chronic pain if they suffer a traumatic brain injury. Coping with newfound limitations will take time and perseverance as people work toward recovery.
Unseen danger
For many people, slipping and falling is quite embarrassing and uncomfortable. However, worse than embarrassment, landing slightly wrong or on certain parts of the body can cause significant internal damage. If left unattended, these injuries can have debilitating side effects and ultimately limit a person’s mobility and independence. In fact, the Brain Injury Institute reports that nearly 35 percent of all TBIs are the result of falls each year.
Embracing change
Dealing with the aftermath of a fall can create feelings of doubt and anxiety about the future for many TBI victims. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are things they can do to improve their condition and work toward regaining some independence. Some of the things they can do include the following:
- Redevelop personal expectations
- Seek support from other TBI victims
- Minimize distractions that create undue stress
- Document important details on paper instead of trying to remember it all
- Establish a routine and stick to it
People can also seek help from a professional therapist. This resource may help them work through cognitive differences, understand triggers and develop new thinking patterns to once again achieve a successful and satisfactory lifestyle.