Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) affect a diverse set of Americans. According to The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), young children in non-helmeted bicycle accidents often sustain these types of injuries. Meanwhile, male teens and young adults face their highest risks of TBI from car accidents. Veterans are another group most susceptible to traumatic brain injuries.
A TBI in an older adult can occur after a car crash, a slip-and-fall accident in the bathroom, or a tumble down the stairs. In addition, active-duty military members face TBI risks every day. According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, more than 185,000 veterans who use VA benefits have been diagnosed with at least one TBI. Undeniably, American service members remain susceptible to brain injuries and concussions. Between late 2019 and 2020, nearly 414,000 TBIs were reported among active-duty soldiers.
In all,1.5 million Americans sustain traumatic brain injuries every year. In addition, 5.3 million Americans live with permanent disabilities because of them.
- Symptoms may manifest as moodiness, anxiety, sleep troubles, depression, and cognitive issues.
- Conventionally, medical professionals have addressed these symptoms with therapy and medication.
- Unfortunately, this approach sometimes exacerbates rather than treats the condition.
There’s good news on the horizon for veterans with traumatic brain injuries, however. New research from the University of Georgia (UGA) has resulted in groundbreaking developments.
“Brain Glue” the Newest Treatment for Brain Injuries
Researchers at UGA’s Regenerative Biosciences Center have demonstrated the long-term benefits of a hydrogel — which they dub “brain glue” — for treating TBIs. Their research — which took nearly five years to complete — strongly suggests that the hydrogel protects against brain tissue loss after a severe injury and may aid in functional neural repair.
This is exciting news because until now, there have been no clinical treatments addressing cognitive impairments or tissue loss after a traumatic brain injury.
How the Hydrogel Works
In essence, the hydrogel helps repair the circuitry of the brain. Developed by Lohitash Karumbaiah, an associate professor in the UGA’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, “brain glue” mimics the functions and structure of the meshwork of sugars that support our brain cells.
The gel contains key structures that bind to two protective protein factors and can enhance brain cell survival and regrowth after a severe and traumatic injury.
With support from UGA, Karumbaiah has filed for a patent on the new hydrogel. He is partnering with Parastoo Azadi of UGA and GlycoMIP, a National Science Foundation-funded Materials Innovation Platform (worth about $23 million), to advance the field of glycomaterials.
On Veterans and TBI
The U.S. Veterans Administration (VA) says that between 2000 and 2017, there were more than 375,000 diagnosed cases of TBI among active servicemen and women around the globe. Brain injuries can affect how you think, act, and behave. They can also affect your physical and cognitive abilities and increase your risk of mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.
That’s why the David York Agency team is so excited about “brain glue,” an exciting new treatment that will encourage brain cell regrowth and function.
Veteran Care Services in Todt Hill
The in-home care providers at David York Agency are proud to assist veterans with the specialized care they need.
We know that servicemembers returning from the battlefield often face a variety of physical and psychological challenges. Unquestionably, their needs will continue to grow and intensify as they get older. In particular, they may require assistance with the activities of daily living (ADLs) such as grooming, dressing, and preparing meals. We also know that veterans with TBIs may have other physical injuries and struggle with chronic pain, depression, and PTSD.
At David York, we offer solutions that cater to your unique needs.
David York Agency Celebrates the New TBI Treatment for Veterans in Todt Hill
If the above information about a new treatment for traumatic brain injuries has been useful, check out David York Agency’s blog for more articles about senior care in Todt Hill.
David York Agency understands the challenges of caregiving and is willing to provide all the support you need.
If you’d like more information about David York Agency’s qualified, compassionate caregivers, contact us at 718.376.7755. A free phone consultation can help you decide what services might be best. If you’d like to hear more from us, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn.
David York Agency Home Healthcare remains committed to providing personalized care for your loved one. If you have questions about our services, please contact us. We can help you through the difficult times and give you the break you deserve!
