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Victims of traumatic brain injury should develop a hobby that will provide many benefits. A hobby will help fill the void that exists after suffering a traumatic brain injury and will provide something for the victim to do other than sitting around doing nothing.

The hobby will also provide an opportunity for the victim and his or her family caregivers to establish communication that is non-threatening to all involved.

Hobbies can provide behavioral improvement and work against anxiety and depression.

Hobbies can assist with memory skills as they involve repetition and can assist with cognitive skills because they involve concentration.

The types of hobbies chosen by the traumatic brain injury victim should be realistic and not too difficult for the restrictions the victim is working under. Considerations would include:

• Physical - If a physical exercise hobby is chosen the physical restrictions of the victim must be considered. If dizziness is a problem then bicycling would not be a proper hobby, if fatigue is an issue then physical exercise should be somewhat limited as going for a walk instead of going for a jog.
• Mental - Hobbies involving mental activities such as reading, artwork, puzzles or using the computer should be started slowly if there are attention or cognitive issues.
• Finances - Any hobby chosen should be within the financial ability of the victim.
• Helpful Services - Each state has a brain injury association that can help the victim select hobbies and help with leisure activities.

A few suggestions for hobbies and recreational activities are as follows:

• Photography (as simple as using cell phone or iPad)
• Writing
• Crossword Puzzles
• Gardening
• Reading
• Walking
• Pets
• Cooking
• Arts and Crafts (drawing, painting, wood carving, sculpting)
• Attending Auctions
• Bird Watching
• Bowling
• Chess
• Collecting Stamps or coins
• Collecting Antiques
• Computers
• Golf
• Yoga
• Jewelry Making
• Kite Flying
• Knitting/Crocheting
• Guitar or Piano
• Cards
• Table Tennis
• Museums

There is an inexhaustible list of hobbies and leisure activities that can be considered. It is extremely important to obtain and maintain a hobby in order to fill the void, enhance behavior and interaction, help with memory and cognitive skills.