3 ways you can support someone recovering from a serious injury
Every year, thousands of Ontarians are injured in vehicle accidents, falls, or workplace-related accidents. These injuries can be physically and mentally debilitating, and can adversely affect a person’s ability to continue to provide for themselves and enjoy their previous quality of life.
If someone you know is recovering from a serious injury, you have the opportunity to make a real difference in their lives by understanding specific ways to support them. Here are 3 key tips for supporting someone you know after a serious injury.
1) Help them with research
Following a serious accident, there is extensive work involved in the recovery process. You can make things a lot easier for someone who has suffered a serious injury by helping them research types of insurance claims, medical expenses, and rehabilitation facilities to get them on the right track. Assisting accident patients by going through vetted, reliable resources is an excellent way to lend a hand.
2) Reassure them with emotional support and listen to them
Suffering a serious injury can be frightening and sometimes even life-altering. One of the best ways to offer emotional support is to simply be a good listener. Allow your loved one the space to express their emotions and work through their feelings. Do your best to create a safe and calm environment for your loved one where he or she feels supported and free to heal at their own pace. For many people who’ve sustained a serious injury, having someone to talk to and listen to their story can be a source of great comfort.
The most important thing to remember when it comes to talking to accident victims is to pay attention to what they’re saying and how they’re feeling.
Here are a few tips for how to be a good, supportive listener:
Show interest in their general well-being and remind them that they’re not alone.
Consider what they may need and offer to help them with everyday tasks
Keep in mind that recovering from a traumatic injury takes time and they may not act the same way they did prior to the accident.
3) Support them during their transition into wellness
A person struggling to recover from a serious injury may feel stressed, frustrated, anxious, and overwhelmed. This is especially true for patients who have been in a hospital or undergoing rehabilitation for a long period. A traumatic experience or injury can take a toll on a patient’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being. That is why it is essential for patients to have a group of individuals who are dedicated to their recovery, outside of their medical team.
Here are a few tips:
Avoid making them feel rushed when facing decisions or pushing them to “get over it.” Instead, practice compassion and constructive discussion.
Offer to assist with common household activities or tasks such as chores, groceries, errands, or organization.
With the consent of the recovering individual, accompany them to their rehabilitation appointments. You can encourage them as they complete their exercises, look for job opportunities, or keep up with their scheduled appointments.
Caring for someone who is recovering from an injury can be stressful as well. Feeling anxious, overwhelmed is not uncommon amongst caregivers. That’s why it is important to look out for your own health as you simultaneously lend a hand.
