Towards independence for paraplegics

Good rehabilitation emphasizes the abilities rather than the disabilities of the paraplegic and promotes the greatest level of self-care and independence possible. However, even with a level of independence, there still exist societal barriers that prevent the disabled from assuming a greater involvement in the community. Educating the government and the public, about the need for more and better suitable housing, more vocational opportunities, fewer physical barriers such as high curbs, stairs and narrow doorways that prevent access to public and commercial buildings and trying to encourage positive attitudes toward the disabled will help bring the paraplegic out of isolation and allow him to develop a full, active life.