Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, 2024 · DOI: 10.3233/PRM-220102 · Published: January 1, 2024
This study looks at how well a special day program works for young people in Western Australia who have disabilities because of illnesses or injuries. The program, called “iRehab,” helps them improve their ability to do everyday activities. The study found that after going to iRehab, the young people were better at doing things like taking care of themselves, moving around, and reaching goals they set with their therapists. These improvements lasted for at least six months after they finished the program. This shows that intensive day rehabilitation can be a good way to help young people with disabilities improve their lives, without having to stay in the hospital.
Intensive rehabilitation can be effectively delivered in a day rehabilitation setting, offering an alternative to inpatient models.
Rehabilitation goals should consider multiple potential priorities for each individual, including those not addressed by a medical model of disability.
Reporting rehabilitation outcomes for children who experience disability is a matter of public health importance to help guide future service development.