FASD and the Use of Helmets
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders is an umbrella term used to describe the range of lifelong effects that can occur in an individual whose mother drank alcohol during pregnancy. An individual who is born with a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder has a damaged Central Nervous System that is often seen through problems with their cognitive functioning and/or motor skills. It is important to wear protective head gear during some recreational activities to protect against any further brain injury.
For many recreational activities, such as bike riding, skateboarding, ice skating, riding a 4-wheeler, etc., wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of a head injury and may even save someone’s life. During a fall or collision, the helmet absorbs most of the impact energy instead of the head and brain. When participating in these types of recreational activities it is extremely important for an individual with FASD, and all others, to protect their head and brain by wearing a helmet.
This is a review of some of the issues related to wearing a helmet that an individual with FASD may experience, and that a caregiver should consider. There are different helmets for different activities. While the issues may be similar for the different types of helmets, this paper will focus on issues that might arise with using bicycle helmets.
It is important to have a good understanding of how prenatal alcohol exposure affects individuals. Click below to review the basics of FASD .
What You Should Know About Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
