Knocking on the door: The integration of emerging disability groups into independent living

Abstract

Objectives: Understand the obstacles and benefits of greater integration of people with emerging disabilities into the independent living movement through two primary research questions: how do Centers for Independent Living (CILs) provide services to people with emerging disabilities, and, what more can be done with them by these centers?

Study Design: Phone interviews and focus groups were used to interview 102 people with disabilities recruited through CILs in Kansas. Data for this study were analyzed by using constant comparative analysis.

Results: Five major themes on possible roles for CILs emerged: Outreach, disability awareness, health referral, employment assistance, and improved help at home.

Conclusions: An expanded role of Centers for Independent Living can develop that recognizes, accepts and supports emerging disability groups.