Services and Roles
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Services Today and Tomorrow
Where services to individuals with developmental disabilities once were focussed on providing safety and personal care foremost, community inclusion is the focus of supports today.
Individuals and families today believe that people with disabilities ought to be living a life as close as possible as to what others in the community experience. Their life should include genuine lasting relationships and having the independence to make choices.
Meaningful Activities and Independence
Individuals with developmental disabilities and their families want meaningful activities. These include paid employment and volunteer work. For some individuals, it means getting more education, like going to college or university.
Living independently is something that many individuals with developmental disabilities want. And their families agree.
Paid supports may be required to make these goals a reality. And that is where community rehabilitation workers play a role.
The Community Rehabilitation Worker’s Role
Well-trained, knowledgeable support workers, who are able to teach skills, are key for achieving community inclusion and independence. Individuals and families expect workers to:
- be knowledgeable about specific disabilities
- see to physical needs of the individuals they support
- meet emotional needs by providing respect and nurturing, compassion and warmth
- show personal initiative, creativity, and have a genuine interest in their jobs
