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How Can We Protect Ourselves and Our Loved Ones with Disabilities During National Safety Month?

Helpful Research Studies and Resources for Individuals with Traumatic Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries

By Diana Jordan, Assistant Digital Media Editor, Media/Communications Department

Are you ready for unexpected emergencies? To ensure your ongoing health and wellness, don't be caught off guard. National Safety Month in June (sponsored by the National Safety Council) is here to empower you and your loved ones, especially individuals with disabilities. This year's theme highlights emergency preparedness, preventing falls, staying safe in the heat, and recognizing possible hazards. Learn essential safety practices to ensure your well-being, no matter the situation.

Emergency preparation form with check boxes and text fields to fill out. Balance Training

Approximately 30 to 65 percent of individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) report imbalance or dizziness when sitting or standing, which affects their daily living and mobility, according to Physiopedia.com. Kessler Foundation is conducting research to improve postural responses to avoid falls after TBI. In this study, researchers assess individuals with TBI taking part in a balance training program that may help them avoid falls.

Emergency Preparedness Resources

To assist individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI), Kessler Foundation, Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, and the Northern New Jersey Spinal Cord Injury System created a downloadable list of factsheets, videos, and podcasts that may help individuals with SCI on emergency preparedness, post-injury body care, and more. Many of the resources are also available in Spanish. There is also a printable emergency preparation card that individuals with SCI can use.

For further tips on how to prepare yourself or family members with SCI for an emergency, listen to our podcast “Uh-Oh the Sky is Falling: Emergency Preparedness for People with Spinal Cord Injury.”