Traumatic Brain Injury in Older Adults

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is common in older adults secondary to falls and motor vehicle collisions. Factors such as physiological changes that occur with aging, baseline comorbidities, injury-related physiologic derangements, and anticoagulation and antiplatelet status must be considered when managing TBI in older adults. While cognitive and functional outcomes can be poor, rehabilitation can result in significant improvement in outcomes. Additionally, fall prevention has the potential to mitigate future injury burden. The purpose of this chapter is to outline the unique considerations for older adults with TBI, including the physiologic changes of the aging brain, work up, in-hospital management, prognosis, and recovery.