Reintegration into the family and the community following traumatic brain injury

Abstract

When establishing a community or family setting where individuals with traumatic brain injury can live, the setting must be sensitive to the individual’s specific needs, as well as basic human needs. All individuals are in need of loving relationships, meaningful work activities, and the ability to enjoy themselves. They also want access to community events, and to be a part of a respectful environment that stimulates growth. Often, return to the family has resulted in disruption, return to work has been the exception, and relationships are forever altered. Reintegration must take place where needs can be met; where individuals are not simply cared for, but where they enjoy the same opportunities as those who are not disabled. The authors of this article each presented at The Second World Conference on Brain Injury, in Seville, Spain. In this article, they look at the impediments to reintegration and possibilities for creating a rehabilitation environment that values life and allows for reintegration into the community and a return to work and family.