The Stages of Rehabilitation
AWARENESS programmes are carried out by MEND in village communities, often in very remote places. These programmes explain the many causes of disability and what local services may be available, like preventative interventions. A range of choices and opportunities are shared for both people with disabilities and their caregivers. Awareness-raising must first remove the stigma of shame or blame for parents having a disabled child or relative.
IDENTIFICATION, is carried out by MEND of children, youth and adults with disabilities. This is performed by a social worker who surveys villages and districts and records the number, types & causes of disability; details about home, family, education and finances; the level of community support available and the quality of accessibility to buildings and toileting facilities.
ASSESSMENT is then undertaken by a trained physiotherapist or doctor of each disabled person to accurately diagnose the cause of disability to decide whether the patient has disease or a muscular or neurological problem and to check the level of joint contractures and limb flexibility in order to gauge the necessary intervention.
