What is an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)?

Published at 10-04-2025 16:06:49

Tags: #ForParticipants

An acquired brain injury (ABI) refers to damage to the brain that occurs after birth. The injury can be caused by various factors, such as:

• Trauma or head injury (also known as traumatic brain injury)
• Stroke
• Substance abuse (drugs, alcohol, or toxins)
• Oxygen deprivation (e.g., near-drowning incidents)
• Infection
• Tumors

Certain neurodegenerative conditions can also cause brain damage, such as:

• Parkinson’s disease
• Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia
• ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis)

Acquired Brain Injury vs. Traumatic Brain Injury

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a type of acquired brain injury that occurs due to trauma to the head. These injuries can range from mild to moderate (such as concussions) or be more severe.

• Closed brain injury: Occurs when there is an impact on the head without penetration of the skull.
• Open brain injury: Happens when a foreign object penetrates the skull and enters the brain, usually causing more severe damage.

Brain injuries are classified as:

• Primary injury: Occurs at the time of the trauma.
• Secondary injury: Involves further damage to brain tissue after the initial injury, which can develop over hours or days.

Symptoms of Acquired Brain Injury

The brain controls different bodily functions, so an injury to a specific area of the brain will typically affect the related function. Due to the diverse causes of an ABI, the symptoms can vary widely.

Physical Effects

Some common physical issues caused by a brain injury include:

• Paralysis or muscle weakness
• Spasticity (muscle tightness or shortening)
• Difficulties planning and controlling movements (e.g., walking, sitting, reaching)
• Poor balance and coordination
• Fatigue
• Tremors or seizures

Severe physical impairments may require assistive devices like wheelchairs or transfer aids and increase the need for personal support.

Cognitive Effects

Cognitive impairments following a brain injury can evolve during recovery. Common cognitive symptoms include:

• Memory issues (e.g., amnesia)
• Shortened attention span
• Difficulty with problem-solving and decision-making
• Problems following instructions
• Lack of awareness of self or others

Cognitive challenges may require support with daily living activities.

Behavioural Effects

An ABI can lead to changes in:

• Personality
• Mood
• Behavior (e.g., irritability or feeling constantly on edge)

These changes may impact social interactions, making it harder to manage relationships and navigate social settings.

Perceptual or Sensory Effects

An ABI can also affect your senses, leading to:

• Altered vision, smell, taste, or touch
• Reduced or heightened sensation
• Neglect of one side of the body

These changes may increase the risk of injury and require learning new ways to manage daily routines.

Communication and Language Effects

Acquired brain injuries can cause difficulties in:

• Speaking and understanding language
• Reading and writing
• Expanding vocabulary

Communication issues can interfere with socializing and conversations.

Is an Acquired Brain Injury the Same as an Intellectual Disability?

No, an intellectual disability is related to the impairment of cognitive abilities that develop from birth to around 18-25 years. Intellectual disabilities affect brain development, leading to lifelong cognitive and physical impairments.

In contrast, an acquired brain injury happens later in life due to trauma or other conditions, affecting previously developed brain functions.

A mental health condition or illness is also distinct from an ABI, although some symptoms, such as mood or behavior changes, may overlap.

Recovery from an Acquired Brain Injury

Recovery from a brain injury depends on several factors, such as:

• The nature of the injury
• Access to immediate medical care, including surgeries if needed
• Timely rehabilitation after the injury
• Ongoing treatment and interventions over time

While some individuals regain full or partial function, others may experience lasting impairments that require long-term support. Individuals with lifelong disabilities may consider applying for NDIS funding to receive the necessary support services.

NDIS Eligibility for People with an Acquired Brain Injury

If you’ve been diagnosed with an ABI, you may be eligible for NDIS funding. The NDIS offers support to help you manage your daily activities and improve your quality of life.

Need Help Finding NDIS Supports for Acquired Brain Injury?

The Expath Team can assist you in navigating the NDIS and connecting you with the support services that suit your needs.