“Everything we do, every thought we've ever had, is produced by the human brain. But exactly how it operates remains one of the biggest unsolved mysteries, and it seems the more we probe its secrets, the more surprises we find.” - Neil deGrasse Tyson
For any of you who might have read my blog posts before, you are aware that I often make feeble attempts at humor no matter the subject. Sometimes I succeed and sometimes I fall flat but I am not going to take up valuable article space with that today, because we are talking about ABI – Acquired Brain Injury and there is lots of information to share!
First, ABI is any brain injury that is caused after birth. These are not head injuries such as a broken nose or fractured jaw, but rather injuries to the brain itself. (please read more here.) And it is also important to know that the symptoms each person is faced with as a result from an ABI are unique to that person.
Let’s get going with some helpful apps taken directly from www.brainline.org:
| App | Name | Description | Price | Device | Helps with |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Listen to books on your mobile device. Great for people who have trouble reading or who retain information more effectively by listening. | Free | iOS, Android | Reading | |
 |
Breathe2Relax | Hands-on stress management tool with diaphragmatic breathing exercises. Designed to help you with mood stabilization, anger control, and anxiety management. | Free | iOS, Android | PTSD, Anxiety, Stress |
 |
Cozi Family Organizer | Family life organization app that includes a shared calendar, shopping lists, to do lists, family journal. This app allows you to stay in sync with your family. * Paid version available for advanced functionality. | Free* | iOS, Android | Organization |
 |
Visual Schedule Planner | Customizable visual schedule iPad app that is designed to give you an audio/visual representation of the events in your day. In addition, events that require more support can be linked to an activity schedule or video clip. | $14.99 | iPad | Organization |
As mentioned above, the needs of each person will differ widely. Some people may need help remembering faces and names, while others may need help managing money. Some people will need help with planning or task analysis. Below there are three links and each one will bring you to lists of apps. These sites also have lots of other information regarding brain injury:
Medtravelers.com
Brainline.org
Trymunity.com
“The brain is like a muscle. When it is in use we feel very good. Understanding is joyous.” - Carl Sagan
Warmest Wishes,
Jean