Community Integration Following Traumatic Brain Injury 1

Abstract

Community integration is the assumption or resumption of culturally and developmentally appropriate social roles following disability. This article describes characteristics of a model system of professional and social services required to address the long-term, community integration of individuals who have experienced traumatic brain injury (TBI). Emphasis is given to defining the goals and values of a model system rather than the structure itself. Goals are defined from the point of view of the individual who has incurred a TBI, the professional providing rehabilitation services, and the society in which they both function. Optimal quality of life is described as the attainment of desirable outcomes from all three perspectives. Common barriers to optimal quality of life are discussed in relation to six salient dimensions of life activities. Values of a model system are drawn from recently delineated principles of community-based services. Implications for the structure of a model system built on these goals and values are suggested.