Training Project 2: Outreach to Community Organizations to Increase Social Networking Opportunities
Reduced social integration is frequently reported after TBI, including social isolation and loneliness, decreased size of social networks, and increased dependence on family to provide recreation and emotional support. Decreased participation in previously enjoyed recreational or leisure activity is also common after TBI. An inability to participate in leisure or recreational activities may reduce opportunities for establishing and maintaining social contacts and friendships after injury.
Community organizations provide important opportunities for participation in leisure activities and socialization, often at little to no cost to community members.
The purpose of this training project is to provide outreach, general education and technical assistance to staff at community institutions that offer opportunities for participation in leisure activities and social networking.
The project includes:
- Provide general education to staff at community organizations aimed at increasing general knowledge about TBI, reducing potential misconceptions, and increasing comfort with persons with TBI.
- Provide technical assistance to staff at community organizations in order to make existing programs more inclusive.
- Provide technical assistance to staff at community organizations for increasing inclusiveness of current programs and for development of new programs for persons with cognitive deficits.
- Advertise participating community organizations at local rehabilitation programs and neurosurgery departments as available community resources for persons with TBI.