Acquired Brain Injuries (ABI) can be life-altering, affecting individuals and their families profoundly. As an experienced rehabilitation provider in the Sutherland Shire and across Sydney, Aevum Health is committed to offering the best support for those impacted by ABI. This guide explains what an ABI is, how rehabilitation works, and how services like physiotherapy, occupational therapy and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can help.
What is an Acquired Brain Injury?
An Acquired Brain Injury is any damage to the brain that occurs after birth. This can be due to trauma, stroke, infection or degenerative disease. Unlike congenital brain injuries which are present at birth, an ABI is acquired later in life, and can lead to physical, cognitive, emotional and behavioural change.
Prevalence in Australia
In Australia, ABI is a significant health concern. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, over 700,000 Australians live with a brain injury, with the majority acquiring their injury after birth. Traumatic brain injury is the most common cause, often resulting from accidents, falls or violence. Stroke is the second leading cause.
- Approximately 1 in 45 Australians live with a brain injury.
- Men are around 1.5 times more likely to experience a brain injury than women.
- Leading causes include falls (42%), transport accidents (29%) and assaults (9%).
The rehabilitation process
Rehabilitation is crucial for people with an ABI to regain independence and improve quality of life. Aevum Health offers a multidisciplinary approach, so each person receives personalised care tailored to their goals. Because we are a multidisciplinary clinic, you are supported from head to toe by a collaborative team. Our equipment includes Tyromotion upper-limb robotics and a Motek VR C-Mill for gait retraining and balance.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy focuses on improving physical functions such as movement, balance and coordination. Our physiotherapists use evidence-based techniques to help restore mobility and strength, reduce pain, enhance balance and coordination, and prevent secondary complications such as muscle contractures and pressure areas.
Occupational therapy
Occupational therapy is essential for helping people regain the ability to perform daily activities — developing strategies to improve memory, attention and problem-solving; enhancing fine motor skills for dressing, eating and writing; adapting home and work environments; and supporting the use of assistive devices.
The role of the NDIS
The NDIS provides funding and support for people with disability, including those with an ABI. We help our patients understand their eligibility, coordinate with NDIS planners to develop personalised plans, provide NDIS services such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy, and ensure ongoing adjustments to care plans as needs change.
The importance of early intervention
The sooner rehabilitation begins, the better the outcomes. Early intervention supports faster recovery and return to daily activities, reduces the risk of secondary complications, and improves long-term prognosis and quality of life.
Support for families and carers
Caring for someone with an ABI can be challenging. We provide education on ABI and the rehabilitation process, link families with counselling and psychological support, help build support networks, and collaborate with respite providers when carers need a break.
Why choose Aevum
Choosing the right rehabilitation provider matters. We offer personalised care built around individual goals, an experienced team with genuine ABI expertise, a comprehensive range of therapies and technology under one roof, and a patient-centred approach focused on overall wellbeing.
If you or a loved one is living with an ABI, contact Aevum Health to learn more about our rehabilitation services, or call us on (02) 8544 3231.