It’s Brain Injury Awareness Week

This Brain Injury Awareness Week, we’re exploring what an acquired brain injury is, how the NDIS can help, and how Aruma can support you to live life on your terms.

An acquired brain injury (ABI) changes your life unexpectedly. But with the right support, you decide what comes next.

This Brain Injury Awareness Week, we’re exploring what an acquired brain injury is, how the NDIS can help, and how Aruma can support you to live life on your terms.

First things first: What is an acquired brain injury (ABI)?

An acquired brain injury (ABI) is damage to the brain that occurs after birth. It can happen to anyone, often without warning. Common causes include car accidents, falls, strokes, infections, and neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease.

ABI can change how a person moves, speaks, behaves or makes decisions. Some effects, like fatigue and memory loss, might be invisible.

The impact can be life-changing, not just for the person with ABI, but also for their family and loved ones.

For a powerful perspective, read Elyce’s story on our blog. Elyce is a Human Rights Advisor at Aruma who lives with ABI.

How the NDIS supports people with acquired brain injury (ABI)

More than 19,000 people with ABI receive support through the NDIS.1

The NDIS provides funding for people with disability to access the supports they need to build skills, increase independence, and live the life they choose.

For someone with ABI, this might include help with daily tasks, therapies, mobility aids, or home modifications. It might mean having a support worker to assist with personal care, getting out and about, or connecting with others.

Others might use their NDIS funding to return to work or study, develop new skills, or move into accessible housing.

To check eligibility, visit the NDIS website.

Let’s explore some ways Aruma can support you.

Support with daily life

Living with an ABI can make everyday tasks more challenging. With NDIS funding, you can access one-on-one support tailored to your needs. This might include support with:

  • Cooking and cleaning
  • Personal care (like showering or dressing)
  • Budgeting and managing your day
  • Increasing your independence

Social and community participation

Staying connected makes a big difference, especially when navigating life with ABI. NDIS supports can help you:

  • Join local groups or clubs
  • Go to events or social activities
  • Reconnect with hobbies
  • Get involved in your community

Therapeutic supports

Rehabilitation and ongoing support often involve therapy, and the NDIS can fund professionals such as:

  • Occupational therapists
  • Physiotherapists
  • Speech pathologists
  • Psychologists and behavioural therapists

These supports can help you regain skills, adapt to change, and work towards your goals.

Need support for ABI? Let’s chat

At Aruma, we know that every person’s experience of ABI is different. That’s why our support is flexible, personalised, and centred around you. Whether it’s in your home, out in the community, or through therapy, we’re here to help you do the things that matter to you.

With the right supports in place, you can keep doing the things you love, regain your independence, and live life on your own terms.

Whether you’re living with ABI, supporting a loved one, or just starting your NDIS journey, Aruma is here to help.

Reach out to our team today: https://www.aruma.com.au/about-us/contact-us/

1 https://dataresearch.ndis.gov.au/reports-and-analyses/participant-dashboards/acquired-brain-injury