Social reintegration of paraplegics and tetraplegics in the Cape Province of the Republic of South Africa.
Rehabilitation of the disabled is a dynamic process which should start from the first day post-injury. Total rehabilitation should include, not only attaining maximum function, but also, satisfaction with life in one's own environment. The obstacles created by able-bodied society, are problems that face the disabled person. The right to participate in, and contribute to, all aspects of economic, social and political life is theirs too, as is the right to make decisions about the future. This should not be overlooked, as decision making sows the seeds of motivation. This in turn dictates the measure of success of social reintegration. Assistance is provided in South Africa by various organisations of central government, provincial and local authorities and private welfare organisations. The Cripple Care Association is a private welfare organisation which provides assistance and acts as a link with other relevant organisations. In the Western Cape the number of successfully rehabilitated persons increases and their presence in the community creates an awareness of their needs. This in turn initiates the process of positive change and action.
D000328:Adult; D001107:Architectural Accessibility; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010264:Paraplegia / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D011782:Quadriplegia / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D012917:Social Adjustment; D012934:Social Isolation; D012946:Social Welfare; D013019:South Africa