What kind of free public assistance and support is there for traumatic brain injury victims?
Hi, I am concerned about my mother. She is 53, I am 23, and I have a 17 year old sister. About 7 years ago my mom had a brain aneurysm which almost killed her. After months of surgeries, time in the ICU, and rehabilitation she was able to get back on her feet for the most part, even though she’s never really been the same. Sadly, over the past 6 months or so, my mom’s health has seriously deteriorated. She had a small stroke that went undetected for awhile, and has since lost her job due to inability to perform. She is barely able to function in the sense that she can’t get herself to do anything, feels physically ill often, and has erratic behaviors and emotions. She can’t seem to even get herself to the doctor on her own as she lacks any organizational skills or motivation anymore, and also has trouble communicating effectively. My mother is divorced and any extended family we have lives on the East Coast. I am completely at a loss as to what to do to help her anymore as the problem has become bigger than I or my sister can handle on her own. Where should I go for help? I don’t think my mom can survive much longer like this…physically, financially, or mentally. I am in Orange County, California. Does anyone know of any free programs that could help her or any suggestions as to who could provide her with some guidance? I don’t even know where to begin, and she’s barely able to take care of herself anymore. If anyone has been in a similar situation or has experience with this, any suggestions would be appreciated.
3 Responses
Sunny
26 Jan 2010
janetup
26 Jan 2010
First, you are a wonderful child for helping your mom.
You need to be stong for her and your sister.
Your mother is not able to help herself and needs to be in an assisted living facility.
You need to just take a few days off from work or school and put all your time into getting her the help she needs.
You can begin with a call to her doctor.
Call your local health department.
Call an assisted living home.
Ask questions and don’t stop till she gets the help she needs.
When she is taken care of make sure you and your sister get an education.
May you stay strong.
Kitty
26 Jan 2010
Go to your county’s Department of Human Services web site. They have a listing for brain injury persons.
You definitely need an advocate.
Is there a county mental health where you live? That may well be a good start in order to get her some services for her MH issues now. Can call Senior and Disabled Services (DHS) to get financial services. they should be able to provide you with other resources.
Do need to get Medical Power of Attorney so that you can make medical decisions for your mom in the event she cannot make them for herself. Otherwise, she could easily become a ward of the state.
Mom needs to apply for State Disability. She will more than likely qualify. That can be applied for at http://www.socialsecurity.gov
Can call any hospital/rehab facility and explain your situation. The Social Services Dept should be able to give you some strong suggestions and resources.
Try this site: http://www.headinjury.com/linktbisup.htm
(There is a hotline as well).
http://www.disabilityresources.org/CALIFORNIA.html
She is so lucky to have you…..