Sustaining a brain injury can change how a person processes information and learns new skills. These changes might affect memory, concentration, or the ability to solve problems, but with the right methods and support, it’s possible to adapt and develop new ways of learning.

Every brain injury is different, and the impact on learning can vary widely. While some people may find certain strategies effective, others may benefit from a completely different approach. Finding the right tools and techniques is key to making progress and building confidence.

Here, JMW explores various learning methods that can support people who have experienced a brain injury.

How Brain Injuries Affect Learning

A brain injury can have a significant impact on how someone absorbs and retains information. The extent of these changes depends on the type, severity and location of the injury. For example, an injury to the frontal lobe might affect problem-solving and decision-making, while damage to the temporal lobe could impact memory and communication skills.

Some common challenges people experience after a brain injury include:

• Memory difficulties: struggling to recall recent events, instructions, or previously learned information.
• Concentration issues: finding it harder to focus on tasks or conversations for extended periods.
• Slower processing speeds: taking longer to understand or respond to information.
• Problem-solving challenges: difficulty analysing situations or working through solutions.

These challenges can make traditional learning methods less effective and highlight the importance of strategies tailored for the individual. Adapting to new ways of learning often involves focusing on a person’s strengths, breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and creating an environment that minimises distractions.

Visual Learning Techniques

Visual learning methods are incredibly helpful for people who have sustained a brain injury, particularly if they find it easier to process information through images, diagrams or written cues. These techniques focus on presenting information in a way that is clear, structured and visually engaging.

Some effective visual learning techniques include:

• Using diagrams and charts: flowcharts or step-by-step guides can simplify complex tasks and aid understanding.
• Mind maps:organising information visually, showing connections between ideas to reinforce memory and comprehension.
• Colour coding: assigning specific colours to categories or tasks can make it easier to remember and retrieve information. For instance, using a red marker for urgent tasks and blue for non-urgent ones.
• Written reminders: placing notes or labels around the home or workspace can provide helpful visual prompts for daily tasks or routines.

Digital tools, such as apps or software, can also support visual learning. For example, video tutorials, interactive infographics and flashcards are excellent resources for those who benefit from seeing concepts in action.

Auditory Learning Techniques

Auditory learning techniques focus on listening and verbal engagement to support the learning process. For people who have sustained a brain injury, these methods can be particularly effective if they respond well to spoken instructions, repetition or auditory cues.

Some useful auditory learning strategies include:

• Listening to audiobooks or podcasts: these resources allow people to absorb information through storytelling or discussions, making learning more engaging and accessible.
• Using verbal repetition: repeating key information out loud can help reinforce memory and improve recall.
• Speech-to-text tools: technology that converts spoken words into text can be a helpful aid for those who process information better by hearing it first.
• Recording and playback: recording instructions, ideas or lessons and replaying them as needed ensures information is readily available for review.

Conversations can also play a significant role in auditory learning. Discussing topics, asking questions, and explaining ideas to others can improve understanding and retention. Regular verbal interaction not only aids learning but also helps rebuild confidence in communication skills.

Kinaesthetic (Hands-On) Learning Techniques

Kinaesthetic learning focuses on physical activity and hands-on engagement to aid understanding and memory. For people who have sustained a brain injury, this method can be especially effective, as it encourages active participation and helps translate learning into practical, real-world skills.

Here are some useful kinaesthetic learning strategies:

• Breaking tasks into steps: dividing activities into small, manageable actions makes learning less overwhelming and easier to follow; for example, practising tying shoelaces one step at a time.
• Using physical demonstrations: watching someone perform a task, such as making a cup of tea, and then copying their actions reinforces learning through repetition and practice.
• Incorporating real-world scenarios: role-playing situations like shopping or preparing a meal can help rebuild confidence in everyday activities.
• Tactile tools: using objects such as puzzles, building blocks or interactive materials can make learning more engaging and accessible.

Movement and physical activity are also beneficial for improving focus and memory. Simple exercises like walking while reciting information or using gestures to represent concepts can enhance retention.

Getting Professional Support

Professional support plays an important role in helping people adapt to learning after a brain injury. Specialists such as neuropsychologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and speech and language therapists are experienced in addressing the specific challenges brain injuries can present. These experts provide tailored strategies and ongoing guidance to promote recovery and skill development.

Here are some ways professional support can help:

• Assessing individual needs: specialists evaluate how a brain injury has affected learning abilities and design personalised programmes to address specific difficulties.
• Providing structured guidance: therapists can introduce step-by-step methods to improve memory, focus and other cognitive skills, ensuring the learning process feels manageable
• Recommending tools and techniques: professionals often suggest effective resources, such as assistive technology, exercises or therapeutic activities, to support progress.
• Offering emotional support: adjusting to new ways of learning can be challenging, but having expert guidance can build confidence and reduce frustration.

Working with a multidisciplinary team is particularly beneficial, as it combines expertise from various fields to create a comprehensive recovery plan. This approach ensures all aspects of learning and cognitive development are addressed, providing the best chance of success.

If funding or access to therapy is a concern, seeking legal advice can help secure compensation to cover the cost of treatment and ongoing support. With the right professional help, people can find practical solutions to regain independence and continue moving forward in their recovery.