Brain injury can have profound effects on cognitive skills. From difficulty focusing to changes in behavior, the impact on daily life is often significant, also for residents of Leiden.
Types of Brain Injury
Brain injury varies from mild to extremely severe, with diverse consequences for the affected person.
Classification of Traumatic Brain Injury
| Severity | Duration of Unconsciousness | Memory Loss | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mild (concussion) | Less than 30 minutes | Less than 24 hours | Often full recovery |
| Moderate | 30 minutes to 24 hours | 1 to 7 days | Frequently persistent complaints |
| Severe (contusion) | Longer than 24 hours | Longer than 7 days | Permanent limitations |
| Extremely severe | Weeks to months | Long-term | Severe disability |
Effects on Cognitive Skills
Brain injury can lead to a wide range of cognitive challenges that affect life in Leiden.
Typical Cognitive Problems
Memory and Attention
- Problems with storing new information
- Difficulty maintaining attention
- Getting distracted quickly
- Forgetting obligations
- Challenges with multitasking
Planning and Organizational Skills
- Problems with structuring tasks
- Impulsive acting without inhibition
- Difficulty making choices
- Limited self-awareness of own abilities
- Initiation problems with activities
Speed of Information Processing
- Slower thinking and reacting
- Extra time needed for tasks
- Becoming overwhelmed in busy situations
- Quickly becoming exhausted
Emotional and Behavioral Changes
Brain injury can, in addition to cognitive issues, also lead to emotional and behavioral shifts.
Changes in Behavior
| Type of Change | Manifestation | Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Irritability | Quicker to anger or frustration | Tensions with loved ones |
| Apathy | Lack of motivation | Neglect of responsibilities |
| Behavioral disinhibition | Inappropriate behavior or statements | Social tensions |
| Emotional instability | Becoming emotional quickly | Misunderstanding and embarrassment |
Diagnostic Process
A thorough diagnosis of cognitive damage is crucial, especially in personal injury cases in Leiden.
Diagnostic Methods
- Neuropsychological Tests (NPT): Detailed analysis of cognitive functions
- MRI/CT imaging: Insight into brain structures
- EEG measurements: Investigation of brain activity
- Daily Observation: Assessment of functioning
- Information from Loved Ones: External perspectives
Damage Assessment
Damage from brain injury is often complex and extensive, with high cost items.
Types of Damage
Loss of Earning Capacity
Cognitive limitations can make work impossible, with damage amounts that can run into millions for young victims with career potential.
Costs for Care and Support
Many victims need long-term assistance:
- Home care and personal assistance
- Day activities
- Supported living
- Rehabilitation for cognitive functions
Compensation for Suffering
In cases of severe brain injury, significant amounts of non-pecuniary damage are awarded (€50,000 - €300,000) due to the life-changing impact.
Specific Challenges
Limited Illness Insight
A challenge with brain injury is that victims often do not accurately assess their own limitations, which complicates treatment and legal proceedings.
Personality Change
Family members and partners sometimes notice that their loved one has completely changed, which heavily burdens relationships and family dynamics.
Practical Advice
- Always have a neuropsychological assessment performed
- Keep a record of functioning before and after the incident
- Involve family and friends in gathering information
- Consult a lawyer with expertise in brain injury cases in Leiden
- Consider regular re-assessment for younger victims
Legal Assistance in Leiden
For legal support, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden at Stationsweg 46. In addition, the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location handles cases related to personal injury and brain injury.