Caring for someone with persistent concussion symptoms without becoming overwhelmed

A CDC study used a large national phone survey from 2015 to 2017 to look at adults born from 1946 to 1964 [10]. Caregivers in that group reported frequent mental distress more often than people their age who were not caregivers, 15.2% compared with 10.3% [10]. They were also more likely to have at least one long term health condition [10]. The survey covered caregivers of people with any health need, so it says nothing specific about concussion. Even so, it is a good reason to keep up with your own care.

Small steps that protect you

• Book a checkup for yourself, a basic self care step the Family Caregiver Alliance recommends [7].
• Move your body. The alliance suggests exercise even in 10 minute bits, and says it can help sleep, tension and energy [7].
• Find people who understand. The TBI Model Systems factsheet suggests caregiver groups, including informal ones you start in person or on social media [8].
• Watch for warning signs listed in that factsheet, such as tension in your neck and shoulders, sleep problems, struggling to make decisions, and feelings of hopelessness or isolation [8]. If they last, tell your own doctor.

Real breaks: respite care

Respite care means a planned break for a caregiver while someone else gives care. The ARCH National Respite Network describes care in your home, adult day centers, short stays in a residential setting, and informal care from a friend or relative [11].

How to pay varies. ARCH says nearly every state offers some respite help through Medicaid home and community based waivers, with different rules in each state [12]. States with a Lifespan Respite Care Program often offer vouchers or grants, especially for caregivers who do not qualify for other public programs [12]. As of July 2024, ARCH’s map listed Lifespan Respite contacts in 25 states, including Nebraska, Tennessee and Virginia, but the list changes, so check your own state [13]. The National Family Caregiver Support Program mainly serves people caring for someone over 60 or someone with dementia [12]. Connecticut’s aging agency, for one, also lists caregivers age 55 or older who look after an adult age 18 to 59 with a disability [14]. Ask your state aging agency what applies where you live.

Sources: ARCH National Respite Network [11, 12, 13]; US Department of Labor [15]. Programs vary by state.

Time off work

Under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), a federal law, eligible workers may get up to 12 workweeks of leave over a 12 month period, with their job protected [15]. The leave may be unpaid. Caring for a spouse, child or parent who has a serious health condition is one covered reason [15]. You can take it all at once or in short blocks, which may fit a weekly therapy day [15]. Eligibility depends on your employer’s size, your time on the job and your hours worked [15]. Your employer can also request a form from a health care provider, called a medical certification [15]. Check your employer’s policy and your state labor department for other leave rules.