Community integration for persons with disabilities: working together to make it happen

In summary, the common themes for therapists working in these three areas are very evident. The content of each paper seemed relevant to all of the client populations. The current trends toward integration and increased consumer control are impacting on occupational therapy practice with all three groups. These trends have significant implications for service delivery and all health care professionals. Occupational therapy has already begun to recognize and value these trends (Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists, 1991; Law et al., 1991). Occupational therapists need to work together and align their efforts to promote the establishment of a comprehensive community service system that enables people to receive the support that they require in their home communities. Service approaches must be designed for empowerment and the full participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of community living. Treatments that focus solely on minimizing an individual's disabilities will not be successful in achieving this stated goal. There is a need for approaches that creatively adapt environments and reallocate resources so as to enhance the formation of relationships and participation in typical community activities. Service providers must be prepared to respond with the assistance that individuals need to achieve their goals. This is only made possible by the participation of persons with disabilities in the decision making process and in the development of services to meet their needs. Such efforts are supported by government initiatives and strategic plans. The realization of full community participation of persons with disabilities is dependent on the quality of the partnerships that are formed between the community, the service providers, and (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)