What is acquired brain injury? Acquired brain injury (ABI) is damage to the brain which occurs after birth as a result of a traumatic or nontraumatic event. Causes include assaults, motor vehicle accidents, falls, infections, and asphyxia. ABI is not related to congenital disorders, developmental disabilities, or progressive diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Huntington’s. ABI can have short-term, prolonged, and permanent impacts on an individual’s cognitive, emotional, behavioural, or physical functioning, which can impact employment, education, and relationships.
Who are we? The Central Acquired Brain Injury Collaborative (CABIC) is a working group made up of publicly funded ABI services and hospitals in the Central Local Health Integration Network (LHIN). Members include representatives from March of Dimes Canada, York Simcoe Brain Injury Services, York Central Hospital, Southlake Regional Health Centre, Central CCAC, Community Head Injury Resource Services (CHIRS), and COTA Health.
l Close to half a million Ontarians are currently living with acquired brain injury. Over 25,000 new cases are added every year. l In the Central LHIN alone, there have been nearly 10,000 documented cases of brain injury over the past ten years. l Brain injury is more prevalent than breast cancer, spinal cord injury, and HIV/AIDS combined. l According to recent studies, 53% of homeless people in Toronto and 44% of the prison population in Ontario have a history of brain injury. l Highly specialized services, like those provided by CABIC member organizations, are needed to increase service capacity and expertise to serve the needs of those whose lives are affected by brain injury.
What are we doing to help? CABIC members are working together to raise the profile of ABI in the Central LHIN. We build connections with other health and community organizations to share what we know so that we can help improve services for acquired brain injury survivors and their caregivers. Together, we are helping to create a plan for the future of ABI services within the Central LHIN.
How can you reach us? If you would like to tell us your ideas or if you need help finding appropriate services or more information, please contact our System Navigator:
416-240-0613 ext. 755 navigator@chirs.com
CABIC members