As Kooris we know there are a number of health problems that affect our community. We also know that most of these health problems are the result of radical changes to our diet and lifestyle since the European invasion. Now there is another health problem that we must deal with. It is called Acquired Brain Impairment (ABI). The problem is, many Kooris may have ABI without knowing much about it. Acquired Brain Impairment is damage done to the brain sometime after birth. Acquired Brain Impairment can lead to cognitive problems. This means that it can cause problems with the way we think, the way we remember things and even the way we behave. Acquired Brain Impairment can also leave us with physical problems like poor coordination and paralysis. Acquired Brain Impairment is not the same as an intellectual disability, a psychiatric illness or dementia. Acquired Brain Impairment can come about after a particular event, for example, a car accident or a stroke, or it can occur because of an illness. Acquired Brain Impairment doesn't affect everybody in the same way. It can be very serious for some people, who may need others to look after them. For others it may only cause slight memory problems. This will depend upon the part or parts of the brain that have been injured. Certain things cause Acquired Brain Impairment. These are:
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