Brain Injury Fact of the Day
Brain Injury Fact of the Day
Sponsored by Missouri AgrAbility
Cultivating Solutions for Farmers with Disabilities
BIA-MO Website (Brain Injury Awareness Page, Top Section – Fact of the Day)
Support Groups, Resource Services, and Family Seminars through the Brain Injury Association of Missouri help survivors and families know they are not alone. Support and education answer questions about brain injury, identify resources within the community and provides information about farming with disabilities, for beginning or experienced farmers or ranchers.
Help, hope, and healing are offered through programs of support, education, recreation, and advocacy by the Brain Injury Association of Missouri. Learn More.
Missouri AgrAbility can potentially help individuals with disabilities return to farming, ranching and agribusiness. With adaptive devices, technologies, changes in agriculture operations, and business planning, many keep individuals with brain injury safely returning to farming and or ranching. Learn More.
The Heroes to Hives – Missouri State Chapter program is an opportunity for Veterans, veteran families, and their dependents over the age of 18 to learn financial and personal wellbeing through FREE professional training and community development centered around beekeeping. Learn More.
Brain injury recovery is a new journey. Being aware of the general stages of recovery will help with understanding options. Download the BIA-MO Brain Injury Recovery Step by Step resource. Learn More.
Education is essential when you and your family are initially impacted by brain injury or are many years post injury. The Brain Injury Association of Missouri offers the Survivor and Family Regional Seminars that provide helpful information, practical suggestions, and support for life with brain injury. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Short and long-term effects of brain injury can be blurry vision, poor balance, or constant headaches that interfere with your farming operation. It can also put you at greater risk for another injury or incident such as a fall, being struck by an object, or chronic pain. Treatment for symptoms and taking precautions can reduce your risk of secondary injuries.
Conditions that put you at risk of falls are lower body weakness, vitamin D deficiency, difficulty walking, poor balance, cluttered spaces, and more. Falling once increases your chances of falling again. Learn More.
The effects of brain injury may include changes in cognitive functioning, motor skills, sensation, and emotions. The individual may experience changes in one or more of these issues. Learn More.
About half of people with brain injury have dizziness or loss of balance at some point in their recovery. Factors that determine the severity of balance issues include the part of the brain injured, severity of the injury, other injuries along with the brain injury, and medications. Learn More.
Vision may also be affected by brain injury. Treatment for vision problems following brain injury may fix the problem, improve vision, or help you manage the problem. Learn More.
Farmers and Ranchers who sustain a brain injury may have the opportunity to continue farming or ranching through Missouri AgrAbility. Services and partnerships provide guidance and assistance through adaptive equipment changes to farming operation, or more. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Brain injury changes life in an instant for the person injured as well as his or her family. Brain injury can happen to anyone, anywhere, anytime – it does not discriminate. Military personnel, farmers, senior adults, young children, and teenagers are all high-risk populations for brain injury.
For rural and urban counties in Missouri, accidents/unintentional injuries are the fourth leading cause of death. In rural Missouri between 2009 – 2019, there were 13,802 deaths from unintentional injury, including brain injury. Learn More.
The brain is responsible for everything we do – it controls movements, sensations, speech, thoughts, and emotions. The effects of brain injury fall within four areas – cognitive functioning, physical abilities, perceptions, and psychological health. Every brain injury is different. Learn More.
16,551 Military Personnel received a medical diagnosis of a traumatic brain injury during the 4 quarters of 2020, according to the Department of Defense. Learn More.
When brain injury happens, you may feel alone. Nearly 17,000 individuals sustain a brain injury in Missouri each year. Learn more about BIA-MO Support Groups to help find answers and support. Learn More.
Missouri AgrAbility and the Beginning Farmer Rancher Program are resources to help experienced or new farmers be successful in agriculture. Learn more – Missouri AgrAbility. Learn more – Missouri Beginning Farmers.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
www.biamo.org or 800-444-6443.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Brain injury changes life for the person injured as well as his or her family. Due to changes in the physical abilities, cognitive functioning, balance, vision, fatigue, and emotions of the person injured, the spouse or children may increase or change their responsibilities with the family farm. Changes to equipment and farming operations may help farmers with brain injuries to safely continue in production agriculture.
Adaptive devices and assistive technology help individuals who sustain a brain injury and the resulting disabilities to be successful in farming, ranching, or other agribusiness. Missouri Assistive Technology has adaptive devices for other resources available. Learn more.
Brain injury happens in an instant and affects the entire family. At some point, most of us will be unpaid caregivers for a loved one. When brain injury occurs, this care may be long-term and can be overwhelming as well as impact family finances and relationships. Care and support are also needed for the caregivers. Learn More.
Support, education, recreation, and advocacy are available for survivors of brain injury, family members, friends, professional caregivers, and the community through the Brain Injury Association of Missouri. Learn More.
Missouri AgrAbility assists people with diseases, disabilities, or disorders employed in agriculture. AgrAbility provides professional training, on-the-farm assessment, technical assistance, information dissemination, and referral to other service providers. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Sustaining a brain injury makes you at greater risk of having an additional brain injury. Once an individual has one brain injury, he or she is at greater risk of having a second brain injury. This risk increases with each additional brain injury, regardless of the cause. Prevention is the only cure for brain injury. Wear an approved helmet when horseback riding recreationally or working on the farm.
Riders who sustained a concussion from a fall from horseback, 33 percent contacted a hard surface such as asphalt, 26 percent landed on grass or dirt, and 20 percent landed on indoor riding area floor surface. Most of these injuries occurred while riding or handling the horse. Learn More.
In 2018, horseback riding was among the sports/recreational activities that contributed to the highest number of estimated head injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms, accounting for 6,141 head injuries. Learn More.
Farmers who sustain a brain injury while horseback riding may attend educational programs through the Missouri Beginning Farmer and Rancher Program. Learn More.
You should only buy an approved horseback riding helmet that is ASTM/SEI certified. The testing required for the ASTM/SEI certification verifies that the helmet provides adequate protection for horseback riding. Learn More.
Rural life and farming appeal to many Veterans. The Heroes to Hives – Missouri State Chapter program may be an opportunity for Veterans, veteran families and their dependents over the age of 18 to learn beekeeping as sustainable, self-employment. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
A Concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury. It is a myth that the person must blackout or lose consciousness to sustain a concussion. Less than 10 percent of concussions have a loss of consciousness by the person. Once an individual sustains a concussion or more severe brain injury, he or she is at a greater risk of sustaining another brain injury.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 454,000 sports-related head injuries were treated in hospital emergency departments in 2018. The sports and recreational activities with the highest number of emergency room treatments were: cycling, football, playground equipment, basketball, and exercise equipment. Learn More
According to the NCBI Concussion Continuous Education Report, more than 90 percent of concussions occur with the individual having no loss of consciousness. Symptoms of a concussion may not develop until a few hours or days after the incident. Learn More.
Second-impact syndrome results from acute, often fatal brain swelling that occurs when a second concussion is sustained before complete recovery from a previous concussion. This is thought to cause vascular congestion and increased intracranial pressure, which can occur very rapidly and may be difficult or impossible to control. Learn More.
Any athlete or person who has sustained a concussion or who shows signs of concussion should immediately be removed from physical activity that puts that person at risk of being hit in the head or body. This removal from play should be for 24 hours. Some signs of concussion include: disorientation, vomiting, headache, fatigue, ringing in the ears, confusion, and more. Learn More.
Young athletes in rural Missouri may be our future farmers. The Missouri Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Program provides a blended experience for farmers with 10 years or less of farming experience to learn, connect, and grow. Learn More.
Missouri AgrAbility is a resource for farmers and ranchers with disabilities to be successful in production agriculture. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Wearing an approved motorcycle helmet has shown to be effective safety equipment to prevent brain injuries and deaths for riders. In 2019 when the Missouri all-rider motorcycle helmet law was in effect only 10 percent of motorcyclist fatalities were unhelmeted riders. This increased to 52 percent in 2021, after the repeal of the all-rider motorcycle helmet law was repealed in August 2020.
Helmet use among motorcyclists is higher in states that require helmets for all riders and passengers. In states without an all-rider motorcycle helmet law, 57 percent of motorcyclists killed in 2019 were not wearing a helmet. This compares to nine percent for states with universal helmet laws. Learn More.
Unfortunately, the Missouri all-rider motorcycle helmet law was repealed in August 2020. Motorcyclist fatalities significantly increased from 11 in 2019, 20 in 2020, and 77 in 2021. Learn More.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates more than $625 million was saved in comprehensive costs for Missouri in 2017 through helmet use by motorcyclists. Another $82 million could have been saved with 100 percent helmet use. This savings was when there were 121 motorcyclist fatalities with a 10 percent unhelmeted motorcyclist fatality rate. Learn More.
About 39 percent of motorcycle crashes in Missouri occur in rural areas. Motorcyclists ages 55 and older comprised 28 percent of motorcyclists killed in 2019. Learn More.
Missouri AgrAbility is a resource for farmers and ranchers with disabilities to be successful in production agriculture. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
About 425,000 Veterans live in Missouri. Of these Veterans, 32% have a disability.
Missouri Veterans tend to be older, are more likely to have a high school degree, and have a higher rate of disability. Veterans are about nine percent of the Missouri state population 18 years and older. Learn More.
Veterans owned or co-owned about 12 percent of Missouri-based businesses in 2012. Heroes to Hives is an opportunity for Veterans to be self-employed in agribusiness of beekeeping. Learn More About Veterans in Rural Missouri.
The Heroes to Hives – Missouri State Chapter program is an opportunity for Veterans, veteran families, and their dependents over the age of 18 to learn financial and personal wellbeing through FREE professional training and community development centered around beekeeping. Learn More.
Missouri AgrAbility helps persons with disabilities, including Veterans, be successful in production agriculture. The brain injury can include brain injury, chronic pain, arthritis, depression, and more. Learn More.
Symptoms may be similar for a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI)/concussion and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but they are different conditions. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
2.87 million brain injury-related emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and deaths occurred in 2014. Leading causes continue to be falls, motor vehicle crashes, and being struck by or against an object.
According to the CDC, approximately 75 percent of nonfatal brain injury-related hospitalizations were from falls or motor vehicle crashes in 2018. Nationally, there were 223,050 nonfatal traumatic brain injuries hospitalizations in 2018. Learn More.
Individuals 75 years and older account for 70,445 (31 percent) of non-fatal traumatic brain injury (TBI) related hospitalizations in 2018. This was approximately three times higher than individuals 65 – 74 years of age. Learn More.
Wearing a seat belt, driving the posted speed limit, and never driving impaired or distracted will prevent motor vehicle related brain injuries. Learn More.
Brain injury recovery is a new journey. Being aware of stages of recovery will help with understanding options. Download the BIA-MO Brain Injury Recovery Step by Step resource. Learn More.
Missouri AgrAbility can potentially help individuals with disabilities return to farming, ranching and agribusiness. With adaptive devices, technologies, changes in agriculture operations, and business planning, many keep you individuals with brain injury safely return to farming and or ranching. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
The annual cost of brain injury to society exceeds $76.5 billion dollars each year in the United States. This includes medical care, rehabilitation services, home modifications, and loss of productivity.
Brain injury comprises 30 percent of all injury-related deaths in the United States. The annual costs of brain injury-related medical care is $11.5 billion and indirect costs of lost wages and productivity are $64.8 billion. Learn More.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recently expanded how they calculate the cost of injury to include quality of life losses and value of statistical life. The updated cost of injuries in the US is $3.8 trillion each year. Learn More.
Rehabilitation, community support, and adjustments to the new abilities of the person injured to assist in the quality of life with brain injury. Learn More.
Missouri AgrAbility helps cultivate solutions for persons with disabilities to be productive in farming, ranching, or other agribusiness. The disability can include brain injury, chronic pain, arthritis, depression, and more. Learn more.
The effects of brain injury that impact the financial and emotional costs for the family and society include changes to cognitive functioning, physical abilities, perceptions, and emotions. Learn more.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Death rates from stroke in rural Missouri counties decreased between 2009 and 2019. However, stroke was still the fifth leading cause of death for both rural and urban Missouri residents within the same years. A stroke can sometimes cause temporary or permanent disabilities. Sudden signs of a stroke are face drooping, arm weakness, and speech difficulty.
The death rate from strokes between 2009 – 2019 was 42 percent. This is decreased from 45 percent between 2007 – 2017. The stroke death rate was higher for residents in rural counties of Missouri than urban residents during the period 2009 through 2019). Learn More.
F.A.S.T. is an easy way to remember the signs of a stroke.
Face Drooping – Is one side of the face drooping or is the smile uneven?
Arm Weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Can the person raise his or her arms? Is one arm hanging downward?
Speech Difficulty – Is the person able to answer simple questions? Does the person have slurred speech?
Time to call 9-1-1 – If the person shows any of these symptoms, call for emergency assistance immediately. Check the time to report when the symptoms were first noticed. Learn More.
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of your brain is interrupted or reduced. This may happen from a blocked artery or bursting of a blood vessel that prevents oxygen and nutrients to reach the brain tissue. Complications following a stroke may include paralysis or loss of muscle movement, difficulty talking or swallowing, memory loss or thinking difficulties, emotional control, pain, and changes in behavior. Learn More.
Missouri AgrAbility works with farmers who have a disability from stroke, traumatic brain injury, or chronic disease. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Farmers with brain injury may have difficulty with common farming activities such as caring for animals, operating equipment, working long hours, or performing tasks that require physical strength. Causes of brain injury include an accident, motor vehicle crash, fall, stroke, or being hit by an object.
Possible changes associated with brain injury include:
- weakness or paralysis of one side of the body or limb
- changes in perception of hearing, smell, taste, touch, and space difference
- emotional challenges of mood swings, anxiety, impatience, depression, and difficulty controlling ongoing laughter or anger outburst.
- difficulty with problem solving, thinking, reasoning, paying attention, and judgment
- challenges with retaining new information and difficulty with retrieval of long-term memory information that affects learning and memory
Many survivors of brain injury experience a change in vision. Treatment may fix vision problem, improve vision or help the survivor manage the problem. Learn More.
Fatigue is common for individuals with a moderate to severe brain injury. Individuals with mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), including concussions, can experience fatigue. Fatigue is often at certain times of the day or after the survivor pushes him or herself physically or cognitively. The level of fatigue varies for each person, just as each brain injury is different. Learn More.
Recognizing limitations in endurance, balance, and physical abilities following brain injury is important during recovery and while adjusting to new abilities. Frequent breaks for rest, use of adaptive equipment, and changes in operation methods may be helpful in managing your farm, ranch, or agricultural business. Learn More.
Resources: Brain Injury Association of Missouri Services; Missouri AgrAbility, Heroes to Hives – Missouri Chapter.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an intrusion, blow, or jolt to the head or body that interrupts the normal operation of the brain. You do not have to hit your head to sustain a brain injury. Oftentimes, there is no visible damage to the head or skull, but the changes in cognitive function and abilities impact daily living for the person injured and their family members.
Traumatic brain injury is defined by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or a penetrating head injury that disrupts the normal function of the brain. Learn more.
There may be no obvious injuries on the outside, such as in a coup contrecoup injury. This type of injury happens when the brain first strikes one side of the skull during the impact and then bounces back against the opposite side of the skull. A generalized injury to the brain can occur when there are stretching or shearing forces applied to the entire brain. Learn More.
When life changes in an instant from brain injury it is important to know you are not alone. The Brain Injury Association of Missouri (BIA-MO) offers support, education, recreation and advocacy. Learn More.
Missouri AgrAbility helps cultivate solutions for persons with disabilities to be productive in farming, ranching, or other agribusiness. The disability can include brain injury, chronic pain, arthritis, depression, and more. Learn more.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
476,000 youth between the ages of 15 and 24 were treated in an emergency department for a brain injury. Another 319,000 young adults between the ages of 25 and 34 received emergency care for brain injury. Individuals in these age groups are our future and beginning farmers.
The number of brain injury-related emergency room visits and hospitalizations of young adults ages 15 – 24 decreased from 12,925 in 2014 to 11,290 in 2017. However, death for this age group increased from 1,960 in 2014 to 2,266 in 2017. Learn More.
It is estimated that 118,000 Missourians have a long-term disability due to brain injury. Health conditions with a significant increase post-injury as reported by survivors and families include depression, sleep disorders, chronic pain, PTSD, other mental health conditions, and seizures. Learn More.
Prevention is the only cure for brain injury, including concussions or mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). Safety and prevention practices include wearing a helmet, wearing a seatbelt, no distracted driving, and no driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Learn more.
The Missouri Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Program provides a blended experience for farmers with 10 years or less of farming experience to learn, connect, and grow. Learn more.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Helmets can prevent 85 percent of bicycle related head and brain injuries. In 2019, 846 bicyclists died on US roads. Cyclists of all ages at all times should wear a properly-fitted, approved helmet.
In 2019, there were 49,000 bicycle-related injuries according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Bicyclists between the ages of 15 and 24 account for 12,000 of the injured bicyclists and another 7,000 were 14 years and younger. Learn More.
The largest number of bicycle-related fatalities was among individuals aged 55 – 59 and older. Ninety-percent of these individuals were male. Learn More.
There are many reasons to ride a bicycle. It is fun, it is great exercise, it offers freedom, and it is good for the environment. No matter if you are riding on a designated bike path, sidewalk, rural road, or city street, wearing your bicycle helmet is important safety equipment. Wear a properly fitted helmet that meets the standards of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission every time you ride. Learn More.
Youth are our future farmers. The Missouri Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Program provides a blended experience for farmers with 10 years or less of farming experience to learn, connect, and grow. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Helmets can prevent 85 percent of bicycle related head and brain injuries. In 2019, 846 bicyclists died on US roads. Cyclists of all ages at all times should wear a properly-fitted, approved helmet.
In 2019, there were 49,000 bicycle-related injuries according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Bicyclists between the ages of 15 and 24 account for 12,000 of the injured bicyclists and another 7,000 were 14 years and younger. Learn More.
The largest number of bicycle-related fatalities was among individuals aged 55 – 59 and older. Ninety-percent of these individuals were male. Learn More.
There are many reasons to ride a bicycle. It is fun, it is great exercise, it offers freedom, and it is good for the environment. No matter if you are riding on a designated bike path, sidewalk, rural road, or city street, wearing your bicycle helmet is important safety equipment. Wear a properly fitted helmet that meets the standards of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission every time you ride. Learn More.
Youth are our future farmers. The Missouri Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Program provides a blended experience for farmers with 10 years or less of farming experience to learn, connect, and grow. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Survivors of brain injury often feel alone – that very few people understand their brain injury. The Brain Injury Association of Missouri offers support groups throughout the state for survivors of brain injury and their families to provide help, hope, and healing. At support groups, you can talk with others dealing with similar situations – and know you are not alone.
When brain injury happens to a loved one there are many questions, and often too few answers. The days, months, and years following the injury can be an emotional roller-coaster. Being aware of the general stages of brain injury recovery as well as medical, rehabilitation, and community-based care options is a good starting point for your journey of life with brain injury. Learn More.
Understanding how the brain works and the effects of the brain injury will help you and loved ones be better prepared for life with brain injury. Learn More.
As survivors and families face the unknown of life with brain injury, gaining knowledge about brain injury and learning from other families can be very helpful. BIA-MO Support Groups, Community Resource Services, and Survivor and Family Seminars are all ways to learn more about brain injury and to connect with others living with brain injury. Learn More.
Living in rural Missouri is the preferred option of many survivors. Missouri AgrAbility helps survivors recognize their goal of farming, ranching, or other agribusiness opportunities. Learn more.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
In Missouri, an estimated 118,000 individuals are living with a long-term disability due to brain injury. This can include physical, visual, mental, or comprehension disabilities. Employment, transportation, rehabilitation, and recreational services provide survivors an opportunity to live a quality life with brain injury.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of death and disability in the United States. In 2019, an average of 161 people in the United States died each day from injuries that included a TBI. Learn More.
Missouri AgrAbility is a resource for farmers with disabilities to explore options to continue farming based on their current abilities and farming operation. Learn more.
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services conducted a targeted TBI Needs Assessment in 2020 to better understand unmet meets by survivors of brain injury. Of the survey respondents, 80 percent reported experiencing at least one barrier to accessing brain injury-related services and supports. Unaware of services and resources was reported as a barrier by 38 percent of survey respondents. Learn More.
The Brain Injury Association of Missouri (BIA-MO) offers Support Groups, Community Resource Services, Survivor and Family Education, and the Donald Danforth Jr. Wilderness Camp to help meet the needs of persons with brain injury and their families. Learn more.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
The Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence reported more than 449,000 traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) among U.S. Service Members worldwide between 2000 and late 2021. In the time period of 2011 – 2015, about 24 percent of the Veteran population 18 years and older lived in areas designated as rural.
The majority of the 449,000 diagnosed brain injuries among veterans were mild. Learn More.
About 5 million Veterans lived in areas designated as rural from 2011– to 2015 according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This is about 24 percent of the Veteran population. Learn More.
Missouri is home to 425,000 Veterans. Of these Veterans, approximately 136,000 (32 percent) have some form of disability. Learn More.
Disabilities may impact work and life for Veterans. Missouri AgrAbility may be a resource for Veterans with disabilities who are interested in farming, ranching or agribusiness. Learn More.
The Heroes to Hives, Missouri state Chapter is an opportunity for Military Veterans to learn more about sustainable employment through beekeeping. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
The rural death rate in Missouri from motor vehicle crashes is more than double the urban
rate. Accidents on rural roadways result in more deaths due to curvier roads, higher driving
speeds, lower seatbelt use among some age groups, and limited healthcare infrastructure to meet
the emergency needs of the person. Seatbelt use saves lives and reduces brain injuries.
For the first time since 2006, more than 1,000 individuals were killed in Missouri traffic crashes. About
two-thirds of these individuals were not wearing their safety belts. Learn More.
Research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that automotive occupants are
45 percent more likely to survive a crash if they are wearing a lap and shoulder belt correctly. Pick-up and
light truck passengers are 60 percent more likely to survive a crash when correctly buckled. Learn More.
The death rate from motor vehicle crashes in rural Missouri counties was 21.3 percent. This is nearly
double the urban counties death rate of 10.8 percent between 2009 – 2019. Learn More.
Of the 126 licensed hospitals in Missouri, only 59 are located in rural communities. There are 55 rural
Missouri communities without a hospital, which can result in delayed access to medical care following a
motor vehicle crash and can prolong functioning deficits from a brain injury. Learn More.
Missouri AgrAbility helps cultivate solutions for persons with disabilities, including veterans, to be
productive in farming, ranching, or other agribusinesses. The disability can include brain injury, chronic
pain, arthritis, depression, and more. Learn more.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
It is estimated that as many as 3.8 million concussions occur in the USA per year during competitive sports and recreational activities; however, as many as 50 percent of the concussions may go unreported. Signs of a concussion include dizziness, blurred vision, slurred words, appearing dazed, walking or running off balance, headache, or a change in sleep patterns – just to name a few.
Youth and young adults are at high risk of concussions from sports and motor vehicle crashes. In rural Missouri, these individuals are our future farmers.
Of the estimated 3.8 million traumatic brain injuries in the United States each year, about 10 percent are from sports and recreational activities. For youth and adolescents, this percentage of brain injuries are from sports and recreational activities. A youth who sustains a concussion is three to six times more likely to sustain another concussion. Learn More.
In 2020, 6.8 percent of youth reported having symptoms of a concussion or brain injury. However, for the same age group and time period, only 3.9 percent of youth had a diagnosis of a concussion or brain injury by a health care provider. Learn More.
Physical and cognitive rest are needed for recovery from a concussion. However, complete inactivity is no longer recommended. Some light activity and school participation, after a day or two, is beneficial for the individual during concussion recovery. Learn More.
The Missouri Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Program provides a blended experience for farmers with 10 years or less of farming experience to learn, connect and grow. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Thrown off a horse, kicked in the head by livestock, tripping over a fallen branch, almost drowning, and a stroke are all examples of brain injury. The day starts off like many others, then the unforeseen happens – a brain injury. Changes in your thinking, concentration, physical capabilities, emotions, vision, or balance are impacted.
Brain injury happens in an instant and changes life forever. The journey of life with brain injury is a slow, step by step process. Learn More.
Proper medical care, rehabilitation, and community services help survivors of brain injury improve functionality for daily living. Learn More.
Residents of rural Missouri have limited access to health care services due to travel distance to a healthcare provider, lower rates of health insurance coverage, and costs. Since 2014, 15 rural hospitals closed bringing the count of rural Missouri counties without a hospital to 55. Learn More.
Farmers and Ranchers who sustain a brain injury may have the opportunity to continue farming or ranching through Missouri AgrAbility. Services and partnerships provide guidance and assistance through adaptive equipment changes to farming operations or more. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Brain injury is often called the “invisible disability.” There may not be physical scars or limited mobility from the brain injury. However, the effects may be short-term memory loss, taking longer to respond to questions or changes in vision or balance. There may also be a change in personality, mood, or sleep patterns.
Short and long-term effects of brain injury depend on the location of the brain damage, severity of the injury, and the health of the brain before the injury. The injury may affect one function of the brain or several functions. Learn more.
Understanding brain injury begins with realizing that a healthy brain is made of neurons (nerve cells). These neurons form tracts that are routed throughout the brain to convey messages to control and coordinate body systems, movements, personality, behavior, and senses. Learn more.
Changes in behavior are often difficult for family members, friends, and co-workers to understand when a loved one sustains a brain injury. The survivor may not recognize how his or her behavior is affecting others. In this situation, it is important to reduce stress such as providing structure of a daily routine, providing support in a respectful manner, and avoiding overstimulation for the loved one injured. Learn More.
Missouri AgrAbility helps individuals with disabilities, including Veterans, explore farming, ranching, or other agribusiness as potential employment solutions. Disabilities can include brain injury, stroke, chronic pain, arthritis, depression, and more. Learn more.
Missouri AgrAbility helps farmers and ranchers with disabilities overcome limitations so they may be successful in production agriculture. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
In 2017, traumatic brain injury (TBI) was diagnosed in nearly 224,000 hospital stays, including about 18,000 among youth. That same year, TBI contributed to the death of 61,000 people. This includes 2,810 deaths among youth who are at high risk of brain injuries from falls, motor vehicle crashes, bicycle accidents, and sports as well as a pedestrian being hit by a vehicle.
In 2017, nearly 18, 000 youth, under the age of 18, were admitted for extended hospital stays due to TBI. The most common cause for their TBI was due to falls (7.7 percent) and motor vehicle crashes (6.8 percent). Learn More.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that most youth who sustain a mild TBI recover from the initial symptoms within six weeks after the injury. It is also reported that of the children who sustain a moderate to severe brain injury, more than 61 percent experience a disability that requires use of specialized medical, educational or vocational services. Learn More.
The long-term effects of the TBI in children may not be realized until years after the injury when higher-level cognitive and behavioral functioning are expected for typical development. Learn More.
To protect your child, make sure the bicycle helmet fits properly and ensure he or she knows how to correctly put it on. The helmet should sit on top of the head in a level position. It should not rock forward, backward, or side to side. The helmet straps should always be buckled, but not too tightly. Safe Kids recommends this Helmet Fit Test — EYES check: Position the helmet on your head. Look up and you should see the bottom rim of the helmet. The rim should be one to two finger-widths above the eyebrows. EARS check: Make sure the straps of the helmet form a “V” under your ears when buckled. The strap should be snug but comfortable. MOUTH check: Open your mouth as wide as you can. Do you feel the helmet hug your head? If not, tighten those straps and make sure the buckle is flat against your skin. Learn More.
Youth are our future farmers. The Missouri Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Program is a great resource that provides a blended experience for farmers with 10 years or less of farming experience to learn, adapt, and grow together. Learn more.
Missouri AgrAbility helps farmers and ranchers with disabilities overcome limitations so they may be successful in production agriculture. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Brain injury can change the personality of the person injured. Someone you love may all of a sudden be more anxious, dependent, angry, shy, or even more outgoing and friendly following a bump or blow to the head or body that may have caused a brain injury. Despite a lack of visible injury to the head, there could be damage to the brain causing changes in personality.
Brain injury frontal lobe damage affects the personality, judgment, problem solving, self-awareness, monitoring, emotions, and more traits that influence actions, responses, relationships, and behaviors. Frontal lobe damage can be undiagnosed when there are no visible signs of injury. For example, the person hits the car dashboard with no broken skin or bruising, but the brain rapidly hits the inside of the skull causing damage. Learn More.
You are not alone in life with brain injury. Support, education and assistance, along with suggestions on how to adjust to your new abilities may be helpful. Learn More.
A total reversal of behavioral changes after a brain injury may not be possible. A better goal is to try to modify behaviors. There are several interventions available to assist with the modification of those behaviors that negatively affect goal achievement, successful community reintegration, or quality of life for individuals with brain injury. Learn More.
Missouri AgrAbility helps farmers and ranchers with disabilities overcome limitations so they may be successful in production agriculture. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
With falls being the leading cause of brain injury among individuals 65 years and older, farmers are at high risk of sustaining a brain injury that may affect balance, vision, memory, problem solving, fatigue, and more. Brain injury can go untreated if there are no visible signs of the injury, such as a fall.
About 2.06 million Missourians live in rural counties. Of these individuals, about 400,000 are 65 years of age or older. Falls had the highest death rates of unintentional injuries for individuals 65 and older in rural and urban communities of Missouri. Learn More.
Prevention is the only cure for brain injury. Ways to reduce the risk of falls in the home are to put a nonslip mat in the bathroom or shower, remove area rugs, remove clutter from inside and outside, halls and walkways, and improve inside and outside lighting. Senior adults are at high risk of a brain injury from a fall. Learn More.
People with traumatic brain injury (TBI) commonly report problems with balance. When you have poor balance you have a high risk of falling and having another brain injury. How bad your balance depends on many factors:
- How serious your brain injury is.
- Where in your brain you were injured.
- Other injuries you had along with your brain injury.
- Some medications used to manage the medical issues connected with the traumatic event or accident.
- Learn More.
The purpose of Missouri AgrAbility is to help increase the likelihood that farmers, ranchers, farmworkers, and farm family members who are limited by any type of disability or chronic health condition employed in production agriculture or agriculture-related occupations become more successful. Learn More.
The Missouri Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Program offers training for new farmers to be successful in production agriculture. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Thank you Active Duty, National Guard and Reserve Military Personnel as well as Veterans for serving to our country. Military personnel could experience brain injury from combat connected or civilian life activities through a stroke, fall, car crash, or other incident. Blast exposures and other combat connected activities may put them at an increased risk for sustaining a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Service Members may sustain a brain injury during day-to-day activities, military trainings, or deployment maneuvers. The majority of traumatic brain injuries sustained by members of the U.S. Armed Forces are classified as mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), also referred to as a concussion. Learn More.
Service members who sustain a brain injury may experience changes in their thought processing, physical abilities, perceptions, or mental health, regardless of the cause – combat connected or civilian daily living. Learn More.
TBI is associated with an increased risk of mental health conditions for Military Active Duty, National Guard, Reserve Personnel and Veterans. This can include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression. Service members are encouraged to obtain professional mental health services for improved well-being. The Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH) Veterans Services Provider Map is a resource to locate professional services. Learn More.
The Heroes to Hives – Missouri State Chapter program is an opportunity for Veterans, veteran families and their dependents over the age of 18 to learn financial and personal wellbeing through FREE professional training and community development centered around beekeeping. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Every 9 seconds someone sustains a brain injury. In 2019 in the United States, about 60,000 people died from brain injury and 223,000 people were hospitalized for brain injury. Every year about 2.2 million individuals are treated in the emergency department and released.
Disabilities resulting from brain injury depend on the location of the injury, severity of the injury and the age and health of the person injured. Learn More.
The brain is responsible for everything we do – it controls movements, sensations, speech, thoughts, and emotions. The effects of brain injury fall within four areas – cognitive functioning, physical abilities, perceptions, and psychological health. Every brain injury is different. Learn More.
Preventing a concussion, recognizing symptoms, seeking medical evaluation, and following concussion guidelines are all vital for recovery. These actions also help reduce the risks of long-term effects for the person injured. Learn More.
Information, support and education are vital as individuals transition to life with brain injury. The Brain Injury Association of Missouri services provide help and hope for individuals and families living with brain injury. Learn More.
Farmers and Ranchers affected by brain injury may find Missouri AgrAbility a helpful resource to be successful in production agriculture. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at
1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
The construction industry has the highest rate of fatal and non-fatal brain injuries in the United States. Between 2003 and 2010 there were 2,210 fatal brain injuries sustained by construction workers. This number is 25 percent of all construction fatalities in the US. Transportation and agriculture are other occupations at high risk for brain injuries.
According to a study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, nearly 7,300 occupational deaths due to traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurred between 2003 and 2008. Construction, transportation, and agriculture recorded nearly half of all occupational TBI fatalities. Learn More.
Between 2003 and 2010, construction workers ages 65 and older were nearly 4 times more likely to have a fatal traumatic brain injury than workers ages 25 to 34. Workers in small construction companies were 2.5 times more likely to sustain a fatal traumatic brain injury than workers in larger companies. Learn More.
More than half of construction work-related fatalities from brain injury were due to falls, especially falls from roofs, ladders, and scaffolds. Prevention of work-related falls includes wearing hard hats, participating in safety training, and using proper equipment or supplies. Learn More.
An alternative employment opportunity for Veterans may be the Heroes to Hives program. Veterans, veteran families, and their dependents over the age of 18 to learn financial and personal wellbeing through FREE professional training and community development centered around beekeeping. Learn More.
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Approximately 5.3 million Americans are living with a long-term disability resulting from brain injury. Each year another 80,000 to 90,000 individuals become permanently disabled from a brain injury that can include limited mobility, short-term memory, inability to concentrate, poor balance, blurry or double vision, depression, and chronic pain.
As the cumulative result of past traumatic brain injuries, an estimated 5.3 million men, women, and children are living with a permanent traumatic brain injury-related disability in the United States. Learn More.
Examples of disabilities due to brain injury may include short term memory, depression, limited mobility, difficulty thinking, processing new information or problem solving, anxiety, visual impairments, and hearing loss. Education and support can help as you and your loved one adjust to life with brain injury. Learn More.
Daily living and farm operations may need to be changed due to disability from brain injury. Help is available. Learn More –Missouri AgrAbility Project.
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Wearing an approved motorcycle helmet is effective in saving lives, preventing brain injuries, and saving taxpayer dollars. There were 147 individuals who died in motorcycle crashes on Missouri roadways in 2021. Of those, 77 were not wearing a helmet. This is a 285 percent increase in motorcyclist fatalities over 2020.
The Missouri Department of Transportation (MODOT) summarizes statistics of the Missouri Highway Patrol to report that as of December 31, 2021 there were 147 motorcyclists fatalities on Missouri roadways and for the same time in 2020 the number of motorcyclists fatalities was 118 individuals. Learn More.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that helmets saved the lives of 1,872 motorcyclists in 2017. If all motorcyclists would had worn helmets, an additional 749 lives could have been saved. Learn More.
Helmets are estimated to be 37 percent effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle riders and 41 percent for motorcycle passengers. In other words, for every 100 motorcycle riders killed in crashes while not wearing helmets, 37 of them could have been saved had all 100 worn helmets. Learn More.
Hospitalization and related medical expenses are higher for non-helmeted motorcyclists due to brain injury. The average hospitalization cost for a motorcyclist not wearing an approved helmet is $6,000 greater than motorcyclists wearing an approved helmet. Learn more.
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
Brain injury affects thinking, attention, behavior, and movement. Beginning and experienced farmers with brain injury may benefit from modified equipment or alternative farming methods. The effects of brain injury can include short-term memory loss, difficulty processing information, and shortened attention span. Physical changes may include limited use of arms, legs, or hands.
Brain injury is complex since no two brain injuries are exactly the same. The effects of a brain injury vary greatly from person to person and depend on factors such as the cause, location, and severity of the injury. Learn More.
Assistive technology and adaptive equipment are available to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of persons with disabilities. This equipment, structure, product system, or modified work practice can help you stay in production farming, ranching, agribusiness, or other livelihood for living independently within your community. Learn More.
The Missouri Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Program provides a blended experience for farmers with 10 years or less of farming experience to learn, adapt, and grow together. Training opportunities are available. Learn More.
Brain injury changes life. However, there are actions and behaviors you can utilize to adapt to your life changes from brain injury. For example, change schedules to adjust to increased fatigue from brain injury; keep questions and instructions simple for delayed comprehension and processing time; modify home and work environment based on new physical abilities, and know you are not alone through support and education. Learn More.
For more information, contact the Brain Injury Association of Missouri
for support, education, recreation, and advocacy at:
www.biamo.org or 800-444-6443.
#MoreThanMyBrainInjury @MOAgrAbility @ShowMeStrongFarmFamilies @HeroestoHivesMO @MOBeginningFarmers
How To Help
PARTICIPATE NOW
BIA-MO UPCOMING EVENTS
Springfield Survivor Support Group
Preferred Family Healthcare 2626 W. College, Springfield, MOSpringfield - Every Wednesday. Contact BIA-MO at (800) 444-6443 for more information. Preferred Family Healthcare, 2626 W. College, Springfield, MO 65802-4637 Facilitator: Lisa Glasgow
Cape Girardeau Support Group
Cape Girardeau Public Library 711 N. Clark, Cape Girardeau, MO, United StatesFirst Monday of the Month at 6:30 pm Cape Girardeau Public Library, 711 N. Clark, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 Room - Geraldine Room Contact: Marilyn Schott, 573-275-7552
