Exploring Participant Perceptions of a Community-Based Program for People With Brain Injury

An acquired brain injury presents complex challenges to survivors returning to the community, and as more individuals survive, the need for programs that support optimal quality of life increases. To explore participant perceptions of a community-based program. To accomplish objectives, 10 individuals living with chronic brain injury who were attendees of the community program were interviewed. Applying qualitative study procedures, all narrative data were transcribed and analyzed. All participants expressed that the program positively impacted several personal life satisfaction factors as well as their participation within their respective communities. Themes included (1) Acceptance, (2) Sense of Community, (3) Sense of Purpose, (4) Autonomy, and (5) Personal Development. Discussion includes analysis of program elements that help explain participant responses. Description of the occupational therapy grounded program offers a guide to others wishing to develop similar programs for individuals living with brain injury.