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Non-residential Vocational and Rehabilitation Training
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It is always exciting to see people with Traumatic Brain Injury return to work after injury. Following initial hospitalization and intensive therapy, engaging in a structured, productive activity has proven to be of significant benefit to both the injured person and the family/support system. “Normalizing” the person’s daily routine as soon as possible to mirror that of most other working adults, provides structure, refocuses the individual on his/her future, improves or generates new skills and generally speeds both physical and emotional recovery. Each individual’s injury affects him in a different way and to a different degree. As long as there is the ability to self-care and motivation to enter or return to employment, this may be a resource to consider.
For many families, finding resources for this opportunity may seem difficult, particularly in rural areas. In Georgia there are over 25 private rehabilitation programs that specialize in work training and employment issues for people with disabilities. These programs are located throughout the state and vary in size and scope. Generally, they are non-residential, day programs designed to engage the injured worker in actual job tasks where he receives pay for work performed.
This realistic training method allows the worker to keep a regular work routine in a structured, supervised atmosphere where his limitations are respected and accommodated. He builds both physical and emotional tolerance. Most programs are flexible and accommodate a schedule designed to meet the person’s tolerance, then graduate the work schedule and intensity based on improvement. Individualized behavior management programs are also available in most organizations as long as the behaviors are not dangerous to the individual or others. Program length varies with the needs of the individual and many programs offer specific skills training as well as work reentry.
The goals of work rehabilitation are to identify the individual’s strengths; develop his skills, stamina and attention span to tolerate a work routine; and identify a job match for his skill level and interests. The final step is job placement and follow-up. Some placements are independent with the person performing his duties under normal supervision. Others require more intensive training and supervision. A job coach may be assigned to work with the employee to train, prompt, supervise and determine alternative methods to accomplishing difficult tasks.
State agencies for vocational rehabilitation may have funding for job coaching but often it is tied to financial need. Some applicants would have to be “freed” from parental support before they qualified which can create problems with private health insurance benefits, etc. Families should seek good counsel from a knowledgeable vocational rehabilitation specialist, private case manager or attorney before making these types of decisions.
When investigating a voc rehab program for a person with brain injury, it’s important for the family to:
- Remain involved with the staff in planning and implementing goals
- Make a list of questions before committing to the program such as:
- Is transportation available? If so at what cost?
- What is the program cost?
- When the person begins working, is a life coach included? If so, how many hours? If not, can one be available? At what cost?
- Do they have someone who will help research financial resources?
- What days/hours is the person expected to be there?
- What happens in case of absences?
- What is the timeline (evaluation, training period, internship, etc.)?
- Will the job have long term potential or is it rotated between program participants?
- Tour the facility and meet the staff prior to enrollment.
- Ask about the behavior management resources and their experience in working with people with traumatic brain injury.
Some community programs have specialized service lines developed for people with brain injuries and other neurological impairments. Although others may not have specific TBI programs, they annually serve a number of patients with TBI.
To locate a program near you, contact the Georgia Association of Training, Employment and Supports (GATES) at 404-523-6674.
Sheila H. Thomas, prior to becoming President/CEO of Easter Seals, served for 25 years as their Director of Rehabilitation Services.