Social Rehabilitation to Strengthen the Autonomy and Self-Sufficiency of Disabled People: Pre–Post Study

Abstract

Purpose: To assess how social rehabilitation (SR) services in Zlín Region, Czechia, strengthen the autonomy and self-sufficiency of disabled persons by monitoring nine areas: exercising rights, safety, work and self-actualization, social relations, eating, coping with everyday tasks and self-care, communication, autonomy, and health care. Methods: Mixed-methods (Embedded) design was used with two data collection waves (2020-2021), involving structured rating interview with disabled individuals (N₂₀₂₀ = 105, N₂₀₂₁ = 95) and semistructured interviews with social workers (N₂₀₂₀, ₂₀₂₁ = 16). Results: Improvements were quantitatively observed and qualitatively validated across all monitored areas (p < 0.001 for all domains), with the most notable gains in communication (pre_mean = 2.95; post_mean = 3.27; Cohen's d = .619, p < 0.001), less in social relations (pre_mean = 2.82; post_mean = 3.02; Cohen's d = .716, p < 0.001). Conclusions: SR enhances autonomy and self-sufficiency, particularly in communication. Improvements were most notable among 25% of participants, who also saw gains in other areas, highlighting abilities interconnectedness.