Abstract:

Independent living centers (ILCs) are an existing network of human service agencies designed to help people with disabilities live more independently and contribute to their communities. These nonresidential, community-based programs emphasise consumer control over the choice of goals and solutions to problems, use of peer role models, a cross-disability focus, and encouragement of self-help approaches to problem solving. Services and activities often include housing assistance, skills training, advocacy, peer counseling, attendant services, information and referral, and transportation. ILCs represent a lifelong community resource that is often underutilized by people with traumatic head injuries.