Recovering from a traumatic brain injury, or TBI, can take time. A TBI affects how the brain works, and each person’s recovery looks different. Some survivors may have changes in balance, movement, memory, focus, strength, or coordination.
Home-based routines can help reinforce skills learned in therapy, but they should always follow guidance from a licensed healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist. The goal is not to rush progress. The goal is to create a safe, steady routine that supports daily function and confidence at home.
Simple Home Routines to Discuss With a Therapist
These simple home routine activities may be recommended or adapted based on the survivor’s needs after discussing with a licensed professional.
Seated Balance and Weight Shifts
Seated practice may be helpful when standing balance is limited.
Examples may include:
- Sitting upright in a sturdy chair
- Gently shifting weight from side to side
- Placing both feet flat on the floor
- Practicing reaching for an object within a safe range
A caregiver may need to stay nearby, especially if the survivor has dizziness, weakness, or poor trunk control.
Sit-to-Stand Practice
Getting in and out of a chair is an important daily skill. A therapist may recommend practicing this movement with a stable chair and proper support.
Safety tips include:
- Use a chair that does not roll
- Keep feet flat and shoulder-width apart
- Avoid pulling on unstable furniture
- Use armrests if recommended
- Pause after standing to check for dizziness
This movement should stop if the person feels lightheaded, unsafe, or unusually tired.
Supported Standing
Supported standing may help with posture, balance, and weight-bearing. This may involve standing near a counter, sturdy table, or other stable surface.
A caregiver can help by making sure the person:
- Stands in a clutter-free area
- Uses stable support only
- Keeps weight evenly distributed when possible
- Takes breaks as needed
Never use towel bars, lightweight chairs, or furniture that may slide.
Safe Walking Practice
Walking practice should be guided by the care plan. Some survivors may need a walker, a cane, a gait belt, a brace, or hands-on help.
Helpful steps may include:
- Practicing in a clear hallway
- Wearing supportive shoes
- Avoiding loose rugs or cords
- Walking short distances at first
- Resting before fatigue increases fall risk
Caregivers should avoid rushing. Slow, steady movement is safer than pushing for distance.
Hand Coordination Tasks
TBI can affect fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Simple tasks may help support daily function.
Examples include:
- Moving coins or buttons from one container to another
- Stacking plastic cups
- Folding washcloths
- Picking up safe household objects
- Practicing opening and closing containers
Choose items that are safe, easy to grip, and not a choking hazard.
Know When to Stop
Stop activity and contact the care team if symptoms worsen or new concerns appear, such as:
- Dizziness
- Severe headache
- Nausea
- Vision changes
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- New weakness
- Confusion
- Loss of balance
- Unusual fatigue
When in doubt, pause and ask a healthcare professional for guidance.
How New York’s NHTD Waiver May Help
For eligible New Yorkers, the Nursing Home Transition and Diversion waiver may support community living for people who need help remaining safely at home.
Depending on the approved service plan, supports may include:
- Independent Living Skills Training: Help build daily living, problem-solving, mobility, communication, and household skills
- Home and Community Support Services: Oversight, cueing, prompting, supervision, and help with daily activities when needed
- Assistive Technology: Devices that may support safety, function, or independence
- Environmental Modifications: Approved home changes that may improve access and safety
- Transportation: Support for non-medical transportation tied to community living goals
Services must be approved based on individual needs and program rules.
Contact HouseCalls Home Care
HouseCalls Home Care can help families explore care options and build a safer support plan at home. Call 718-922-9200, email info@HouseCallshc.org, or register through our online form, and our team will get back to you.
Key Takeaways
TBI recovery is different for every person. Home routines can support mobility, balance, coordination, and daily function when they follow guidance from a licensed healthcare professional.
Keep activities simple, safe, and consistent. Use clutter-free spaces, stable support surfaces, good lighting, and supervision when needed. Stop if symptoms worsen, and contact the care team with any concerns.
For eligible participants in New York, the NHTD waiver may offer services that support safer community living and greater independence at home.
