Administration of Community Living Grant at MRC

Annually, Massachusetts sees 73,000 cases of traumatic brain injuries (TBI). These survivors are at high risk for post-injury neuropsychiatric disorders, with nearly 50% experiencing major depressive disorder within the first year. Research indicates 80% of those with co-occurring mental illness and substance use disorder also have a TBI. Discover MRC's Brain Injury Strategic Plan and screening tools for more information.

Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) has received grant funds from Administration of Community Living (ACL) (previously HRSA) for over 20 years. These grants focus on enhancing statewide programs, education, training and resources regarding brain injuries. 

Brain Injury Strategic Plan

This strategic plan serves as a foundation to guide the state to improve services, supports and system for those living with brain injuries. Read more about the plan here: MRC Brain Injury Strategic Plan

Training and Learning Opportunities

• Domestic Violence and Brain Injury: part one
• Brain Injury Web Course: a FREE, seven-module, self-paced web course curricula was designed to help Massachusetts build a trained brain injury work force statewide. The content is geared for all levels of community-based providers covering introduction to brain injury, mental health, screening and resources, alcohol and substance use, and employment supports for those with brain injury. This course and it’s content was updated and republished in January 2024.
• Brain Injury and Substance Use Forum (5-Modules) 
• MRC Regional Communities of Practice
• How to Support the Brain Injury and Substance Use Community

Screening Tools and Accommodations

• Accommodations and Compensatory Strategies For Cognitive Deficits Resulting from a Brain Injury
• Lifetime History of Traumatic Injury and other Acquired Brain Injuries Screening Tool and Instructions
• Online Brain Injury Screening and Support System (OBISSS)
• NASHIA OBISSS Flyer

Brain Injury in Older Adults

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) symptoms in older adults can resemble those of dementia, leading to misdiagnosis. Additionally, individuals with dementia, depression, or Parkinson’s disease are more prone to fall-related TBIs. Given the higher risk of falls among older adults, implementing preventive measures is crucial to mitigate further TBIs.

Moreover, older adults, often managing chronic illnesses, face challenges in TBI recovery. Factors like medication interactions, balance issues, and home hazards elevate their risk of sustaining a concussion from falls. Recognizing these risks is vital as older adults may experience prolonged symptoms and slower recovery compared to younger individuals.

Resources for older adults:

• Traumatic Brain Injury in Older Adults
• Substance Use Disorder and Depression
• Staying Independent Tips 
• Executive Office of Elder Affairs (EOEA)
• Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts 
• CDC Fall Prevention
• CDC Elder Abuse Page