Information Package - Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association

Transcription

Produced by
For the Greater
Vancouver area of
British Columbia,
Canada
Sixth Printing January 2011
Table of Contents
Introduction to Information and Resource Package
Acquired Brain Injury
Understanding Changes after Acquired Brain Injury
Understanding the Brain
Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association
Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association Services
Resources in BC
Children and Adolescent Resources
Community Services
Counsellors, Counselling Services and Support Services
Drop In, Day Programs and Support Groups
Education
Financial Services
Government Services
Health Services
Special Equipment and Rehabilitation
Housing and Residential Services
Internet Resources
Jobs, Skills and Training
Legal
Multicultural/Aboriginal Services
Recreation and Leisure
Seniors‟ Services
Transportation
2
3
4
5
6
7
Information and Resources for the Bellingham and Sumas Washington, USA, area
Community Services
Government Agencies
Recreation / Leisure
Rehabilitation Facilities
Brain Injury Associations/Support Groups
50
50
50
50
51
51
Stress Management Tips
How to Know When You are Stressed
Acquired Brain Injury and Nutrition
Children with Acquired Brain Injury
Return to School After Acquired Brain Injury
What to Ask when Interviewing a Lawyer
52
53
54
55
56
57
Appendix A-Your Important Phone Numbers
Appendix B-Meetings/Appointments/Tests Tracking Sheet
Practical Applications
58
59
60
8
10
13
17
18
19
20
21
24
29
32
33
37
38
41
46
48
1|Page Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association
Information and Resource Package - Updated March 2011
Introduction to Information and Resource Package
The members, Board and staff of the Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association would like to thank the Rotary
Club of Abbotsford/Sumas and Soroptomist International of Abbotsford for their support in making this
resource package possible.
FIRST PRINTING FUNDED BY:
The Abbotsford/Sumas Rotary Club
Soroptomist International of Abbotsford
EDITING/PRODUCTION COORDINATION AND SUPERVISION:
Carol Paetkau, Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association
DESIGN AND PRODUCTION:
Jodie Millward, Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association
Monique Babich, Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association
We gratefully acknowledge the contributions of Jodie Millward, Joy Scobie, GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre
and The Brain Injury Association of Washington to the development of this package.
Used properly, this package will assist you to:





Become more knowledgeable in regards to survivors of acquired brain injury
Become more aware of the resources available within your area
Be responsible for “the next step” following discharge
Be aware of your “resource contacts” in the community
Make appropriate decisions for required care.
Please note: Inclusion in this Information and Resource Manual does not imply an endorsement
by the Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association nor does it guarantee eligibility for services. Each
organization has its own criteria for providing services.
People with brain injuries and their families work with health service providers and community service
organizations to identify and learn to use various strategies to help address any of the difficulties that they
may be having. This resource manual is designed to assist with the search for resources and services
available in your community.
This information package will be updated periodically by the FVBIA, to reflect changes in community
resources, contact persons and telephone numbers. Please be advised that numbers and resources can
change without notice. If you think that we are missing anything or if you know about any resources you
think should be included, please contact the FVBIA at 604-557-1913 or Toll-Free 1-866-557-1913. If you
require services that are not listed here, you can contact the FVBIA for assistance or Enquiry BC at 1-800663-7867
Please note: This list may not be complete, but by contacting these resources you will be expanding your
“network”, thus increasing your chances of getting your needs met.
Appendices A and B are examples of ways to keep track of your resources and meetings. Please feel free
to photocopy them and any of the material in this resource package for your own use.
Acquired Brain Injury
An acquired brain injury is defined as:
„Damage to the brain, which occurs after birth and is not related to a congenital or a degenerative disease.
These impairments may be temporary or permanent and cause partial or functional disability or
psychosocial maladjustment.‟
World Health Organization (Geneva 1996)
Specifically, acquired brain injuries are caused by:
 Traumatic forces to the head which cause damage to the brain
- Car crashes
- Gunshot wounds to the head
- Objects falling on the head
- Falls
- Assaults

Stroke
- Blood flow to the brain being blocked by a blood clot or a blood vessel bursting in the brain.
- Embolism
- Thrombosis
- Aneurysm
 Bleeding in the brain
- Intracranial surgery
- Hemorrhage
- Hematoma
 Lack of oxygen to the brain
- Anoxia/hypoxia
- Near-drowning
- Cardiac arrest (heart stops beating)
- Drug overdose
 Infections in the brain
 Toxic exposure
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Inhaling toxic chemicals
- Solvent sniffing
- Excessive and prolonged use of drugs and/or alcohol
 Fluid build-up in the brain
 Brain tumours
Understanding Changes After Acquired Brain Injury
Acquired brain injuries can result in changes to how a person functions in the following areas:
 Physical Changes
- Problems with walking, sitting, transfers, bathing, household tasks
- Slurred speech
- Chronic pain including headaches
- Fatigue and sleep difficulties
 Cognitive Changes
- Taking more time to make sense of information
- Problems with planning, organizing or starting tasks
- Problems with vision
- Problems understanding conversations, coming up with the right word, talking in
grammatically complete sentences
- Lack of focus
- Poor memory
- Difficulty with judgement and decision making
- Perseveration – getting „stuck‟ on a topic, idea or activity
- Confusion – may not know the date, year, time of day, where you are
- Impulsivity – act before you think
- Disinhibition – no “social filter” to tell you when you shouldn‟t do or say something
 Emotional Changes
- Irritability – “short fuse”
- Mood disorders like depression, anxiety, anger management problems
- Emotional lability – crying for no apparent reason
- Emotional or behavioural outbursts
- “Normal” emotional responses to the incredibly devastating impact of the brain injury
- Sadness, anger, frustration, loss of sense of self, anxiety about having another stroke or
injury
 Social Changes
- Awkwardness or inappropriate
behaviour because of difficulty
reading social cues
- Isolating yourself because you feel
different and therefore leading to
being treated differently
- Trouble with social and work
relationships because of
awkwardness and poor coping skills
- Family breakdowns
- Loss of privacy, independence, future
plans, income
- Change in roles – e.g. was a
caregiver, now has to receive care
from others
Understanding the Brain
Here is a simplified analogy of how the brain works:
I find it helps to understand how the brain works if you think of the brain as a company. The company runs
at peak efficiency when all the parts are working. Up at the front of the company (frontal temporal lobes) are
the vice presidents, and there are several vice presidents. They make the plans for the company; they
decide who is going to do what and when. As things get under way, they get feedback or information as to
how well things are going and they judge it - that looks good or not so good; and they make further
decisions – change that, keep this; and show appreciation or annoyance. So, up at the front you have
planning, organization, decision-making, judgment and appreciation.
In the middle (parietal association cortex) are the managers and each manager runs his own department.
On the left side of the brain is a speech department (move the tongue and lips and throat muscles), a
language department (find the words that you want, know what the words mean) and a motor department
(move the right arm and right leg). On the right side is another motor department (move the left arm and left
leg), and a spatial reasoning department (find your way around a building, know where you are when driving
a car, down to the basic getting your arm through a sleeve). Also over there is a music department and a
few incidentals. The right side is the picture side and the left side is the talking side.
Now the managers, they know what the plan is
from the vice presidents, and they make sure it
gets carried out. And in order to do this, they
communicate frequently with each other; they
send messages back and forth.
At the bottom, (limbic region, amygdala, basal
ganglia) are the workers. They don‟t know what
the plan is from the vice presidents, but they
know their job and they do the same job day in
and day out. Things like appetite control, need
for water, staying alert and awake or going to
sleep, and basic emotions – turn on the tears,
make the face red, and increase the pulse rate.
Basically in a brain injury, someone gets fired. It can be a vice president, a manager or a worker, depending
on the injury. You can also have someone going on a leave of absence; that occurs when there is a
temporary swelling or loss of blood supply that is returned in a short time. The result of the injury is to
reduce the efficiency of the company. Messages get sent but aren‟t picked up. The vice presidents get
annoyed, the managers get fatigued, and the emotional workers get overwrought. Confusion reigns. A
primary purpose of rehabilitation is to find out who got fired and who is still on the job, so messages can be
re-routed and the company can become more and more efficient again.
Verna Amell, Ph.D.
Psychologist
*Reprinted with permission of the BC Rehab Society- now known as the Vancouver Hospital and Health
Sciences Centre
Mission Statement
Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association‟s mission is to be a resource and advocate for people with an acquired
brain injury, their families and their supporters in the Fraser Valley. We strive to be a resource for the community
regarding brain injury and brain injury prevention.
The Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association (FVBIA) started in 1991 as a support group for individuals who
had an acquired brain injury and their families in the Chilliwack area and later in Abbotsford, BC. The
groups were facilitated and nurtured by John Simpson, a renowned case manager in the field of brain injury.
The members of these groups formed FVBIA in 1997.
The purpose of FVBIA is to provide support, assistance and information to people who have an acquired
brain injury, their families and other caregivers. Conservatively, we know that between 7,800 to 14,000
people in BC sustain an acquired brain injury each year from car crashes, falls, assaults, blows from blunt
objects, sports related injuries, anoxia, brain tumours, stroke, aneurysm, infections, diseases, metabolic
causes such as anorexia and diabetes as well as people who have drug/alcohol interactions, toxins or brain
surgery.
We are involved in coordinating the development of appropriate services, opportunities, rehabilitation and
training for people with acquired brain injury. FVBIA has contracted the operation of drop-in programs in
Chilliwack and Abbotsford for people with an acquired brain injury. These programs are operated by
Communitas Supportive Care Society (formerly MCC SCS).
The Association is actively involved in promoting the prevention of brain injury through promotion of correct
use of bicycle helmets. We are also active in advancing public awareness, knowledge and appreciation of
the specific needs of people with brain injury and their families. We provide free in-services about brain
injury and resources to agencies, schools, students, families, local hospitals and service providers. We
believe prevention to be the greatest cure. Please contact our office for information on services pertaining
to prevention, education and safety.
In addition, FVBIA provides case management services for adults and children.
survivors and families are also offered throughout the Fraser Valley.
Support groups for
We also offer a variety of recreational supports and groups. Please contact us for information as services
and programs do change over time.
Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association (FVBIA)
#204 – 2890 Garden Street
Abbotsford, BC V2T 4W7
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.fvbia.org
604-557-1913
or Toll-Free 1-866-557-1913
Fax: 604-850-2527
FVBIA is funded in part by Fraser Health‟s Acquired Brain Injury Program, the Province of BC, Chilliwack
Bingo, United Way of the Fraser Valley, ICBC Rehabilitation as well as through donations, memberships,
grants and various fundraising events. FVBIA is a Registered Charity.
Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association Services
The FVBIA offers support to children, youth and adults with acquired brain injuries, their families and
supporters through a variety of different programs. Please call Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association for
more information on case management services, social and leisure programs, skill development and other
resources that are presently available.
Current programs are listed in the HeadsUp Newsletter, which can be found on the Fraser Valley Brain
Injury Association‟s website www.fvbia.org .
Art & Photography Groups:
Each year, FVBIA offers a variety of art, drawing,
theatre and photography classes taught by qualified
instructors. Contact FVBIA for details.
Survivor & Family Support Group Meetings:
For details on support group times and locations in
the Lower Mainland, please contact the FVBIA office
at 604-557-1913 or toll-free at 1-866-557-1913.
For other support groups in British Columbia, contact
Headline News at [email protected] .
FVBIA Drop-in & Leisure Programs:
Abbotsford: Call 604-557-1913 or Toll Free 1-866-557-1913 for more information or check the FVBIA
website www.fvbia.org for the latest edition of the “Heads UP!” newsletter for details.
Chilliwack Drop-In: Call 604-557-1913 or Toll Free 1-866-557-1913 for more information or check the
FVBIA website www.fvbia.org for the latest edition of the “Heads UP!” newsletter for details.
Hope Leisure Program: Call 604-557-1913 or Toll Free 1-866-557-1913 for more information or check the
FVBIA website www.fvbia.org for the latest edition of the “Heads UP!” newsletter for details.
The Drop-In and Leisure programs are run by qualified facilitators and focus on meeting the social and
emotional needs of those who attend. Members are involved in the planning and organization of activities,
menu planning, and meal preparation.
For details on other drop-in and leisure program times and locations in the Lower Mainland, please contact
the FVBIA office at 604-557-1913 or toll-free at 1-866-557-1913.
For other drop-in and
[email protected] .
leisure
programs
in
British
Columbia,
contact
Headline
News
at
Resources and Services in British Columbia
Child and Adolescent Resources
Child and Youth Mental Health
A doctor‟s referral is required for this service
Community Brain Injury Program for Children & Youth in BC
1-877-451-5511
Fraser Valley Child Development Centre:
Offers access to speech, occupational and physical therapists
Abbotsford
Chilliwack
Hope
Mission
Langley
604-852-2686
604-824-8760
604-869-5467
Ext. # 104
604-820-9536
604-534-1155
GF Strong Rehab Centre
Provides rehabilitation services and other specialized services
604-734-1313
Help Line for Children
A 24-hour province-wide toll free line for children needing help, or
for any person who knows of a child who is abused or neglected
604-310-1234
Help Line for Youth
Toll-free 1-866-661-3311
Website:
www.youthinbc.com
Impact Society – Youth Addiction Prevention Services
604-853-1766
Kids Help Phone
A 24-hour service for children and adolescents in need
1-800-668-6868
Abbotsford Childcare Resource & Referral
604-850-7934
Abbotsford Community Services – Youth Resource Centre
Provides services for youth and families in conflict,
youth justice services, counselling and support services
604-870-4972
Aldergrove Community Youth Services
Family strengthening, prevention / support for youth
604-857-2116
Chilliwack Community Services - Youth Services
Youth suicide prevention and intervention
604-792-6632
604-792-4267
Langley Youth and Family Services
Provides counselling and intervention for children and youth up to
age 17 to prevent anti-social behaviour and conflict with law
604-514-2900
Legal Services Society
For information about free legal services
Toll-free
1-866-577-2525
Child and Adolescent Resources cont’d:
Ministry of Children and Family Development:
Offers child protection services, social worker, some recreation
Abbotsford
Hope
Chilliwack
Mission
Langley
604-870-5880
604-869-4900
604-702-2311
604-820-4300
604-514-2711
Sunny Hill Hospital
Provides a variety of services for children and adolescents such as
rehabilitation, counselling, sexual health issues, communication
devices and therapy
604-453-8300
Abbotsford Youth Commission
604-854-8785
Chilliwack Youth Commission – Chilliwack Community Services
604-792-4267
Langley Youth Commission (virtual)
Website:
Non-profit organizations working to involve youth in identifying,
promoting and assisting with improvement of services
and programs for young people in the community
www.LangleyYouth.com
Youth Employment:
Career Tracks Youth Employment Centre
Must be age 15 to 30 and unemployed
Chilliwack
604-793-6644
Fraser Valley Skills Link Work Experience Program
Must be 15 to 30, unemployed, referral required
Abbotsford
Toll-free
Chilliwack
Toll-free
604-504-5515
1-877-504-5515
604-703-1505
1-866-700-1505
Service Canada Centres for Youth (SCCY)
For information about jobs, education, careers or finances
Websites: www.servicecanada.gc.ca
www.youth.gc.ca
Youth Employment Resource Centre (YERC)
Free services to unemployed/underemployed
youth aged 15 to 30
Abbotsford
Langley
604-859-9454
604-534-8874
Youth Employment Zone
Assists youth to develop job search skills
Langley
604-514-3110
Community Services
Chilliwack Resource Centre
Referral service, provides information on free community services,
Income tax preparation, phone/fax/photocopying services
604-702-9595
Community Services
Provide a variety of services to the public such as volunteer
drivers, Planned Parenthood, Meals on Wheels...
Abbotsford
or
Agassiz/ Harrison
Chilliwack
Hope
Mission
Langley
604-859-7681
604-870-3764
604-796-2585
604-792-4267
604-869-2466
604-826-3634
604-534-7921
Abbotsford
Chilliwack
Langley
604-852-9305
604-792-0001
604-514-7375
Abbotsford
Agassiz/ Harrison
Aldergrove
Chilliwack
604-859-5749
604-796-2585
604-857-1671
604-792-3663
604-792-0001
604-869-2466
604-826-3634
604-533-0671
Salvation Army
Provides a variety of services such as assistance with
life skills, providing support, aiding in employment
searches and offers volunteer opportunities
Food Banks
Hope
Mission
Langley
10 | P a g e F r a s e r V a l l e y B r a i n I n j u r y A s s o c i a t i o n
Community Services Cont’d
Thrift Stores:
Abbotsford:
Above the Underground – Second Hand Clothing
9 -31940 South Fraser Way, Abbotsford
604-504-1988
Hidden Treasures Thrift Store
2657 W. Railway Street, Abbotsford
604-855-0221
Bibles for Mission Society
2337 West Railway, Abbotsford
604-854-6682
Life‟s Second Chance Thrift Store
31550 South Fraser Way, Abbotsford
604-854-5928
MCC Abby East Thrift Shop
105 – 34150 South Fraser Way, Abbotsford
604-850-2221
MCC Thrift & Furniture Shop
or
604-850-0017
604-854-2062
Salvation Army Thrift Store
34081 Gladys Ave., Abbotsford
604-852-9305
Value Village
604-850-3712
Agassiz:
Agassiz-Harrison Community Thrift Store
6919 Cheam Ave., Agassiz
604-796-9932
Chilliwack:
Bibles for Missions Thrift Shop
9280 Nowell Street, Chilliwack
604-793-1996
Bibles for Missions Thrift Store
45790 Luckakuck Way, Chilliwack
604-858-9444
Chilliwack Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Shoppe
9236 Main Street, Chilliwack
604-793-9222
First Baptist Clothing Bank
5518 Vedder Road, Chilliwack
604-858-0606
MCC Thrift Store
45774 Kipp Ave., Chilliwack
604-792-3731
Community Services Cont’d
Thrift Stores cont’d:
MCC Yarrow Thrift Shop
42232 Yarrow Central Road, Chilliwack
604-823-4344
Mother Teresa‟s Place
8909 Mary Street, Chilliwack
604-795-7110
Salvation Army Thrift Store/Soup Kitchen/Food Bank
45746 Yale Road, Chilliwack
604-792-0001
The Chilliwack Lions Club Flea Market
46293 Yale Road, Chilliwack
604-792-3483
Thrifty Boutique (Chilliwack Hospice Society)
260-45428 Luckakuck Way, Chilliwack
604-846-2226
Value Village
2090-45150 Luckakuck Way, Chilliwack
604-847-0667
Hope:
Ed‟s Old Place
555 Wallace Street, Hope
604-869-2583
Langley:
Bibles for Missions Thrift Store
5785 200th Street, Langley
604-533-3995
Langley Salvation Army Thrift Store
19868 Langley Bypass, Langley
604-530-1321
Mission:
MCC Thrift & Furniture Shop
32608 Fraser Crescent, Mission
604-826-1515
Salvation Army
7221 Park Street, Mission
604-826-1315
Other:
Diabetes Clothes Line
1-800-505-5525
Counsellors, Counselling Services and Support Services
Alcohol and Drug Treatment:
Abbotsford Addictions Centre
Adult and Youth Addiction Services
604-850-5106
Lower Mainland
Outside Lower Mainland
604-660-9382
1-800-663-1441
Chilliwack Addiction & Prevention Services (C.A.P.S.)
Information and outpatient counselling services,
prevention, intervention and treatment services
604-795-5994
GF Strong Alcohol & Drug Program
Provides coordinated interdisciplinary services including
short-term intervention, education, resources, consultation
604-737-6393
Kelty Resource Centre
Links children, youth and families with appropriate
mental health and addictions resources
604-875-2084
1-800-665-1882
Toll-free
Langley Community Services
Parenting, addictions counselling, groups
604-534-7921
Counsellors:
Contact the FVBIA for professional counsellors in your area who have experience
working with people with acquired brain injuries and their families.
BC Association of Clinical Counsellors
1-800-909-6303
Emergency Supports:
Ann Davis Transition Society (Chilliwack)
Provides shelter and support for abused women, therapy,
advocacy, counselling, groups
604-792-2760
Central Fraser Valley Telecare Crisis Line (Abbotsford)
604-852-9099
Crisis Centre
South Fraser Regional Crisis Line (Langley)
Fraser Health Crisis Line
Telephone support services for people in distress.
Map of BC with local contact numbers.
604-872-1811
(24 hrs.)
604-951-8855
Or 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)
Website:
1-877-820-7444
www.crisiscentre.bc.ca
SAFER
Counselling service for suicidal crisis.
Sexual Abuse Support Services (SASS)
604-879-9251
Langley
604-534-2171
Counsellors, Counselling Services and Support Services cont’d
Victim Services:
BC Centre for Elder Advocacy & Support
Seniors Information and Help Line (Mon – Fri, 10 am to 3 pm)
Toll-free
604-437-1940
1-866-437-1940
Chilliwack Community Services
Specialized victim assistance: information, support, referrals and
court assistance for assault/abuse
604-792-4267
Ministry of the Attorney General
Trained resource people to assist victims of crime
250-387-1866
Public Safety and Solicitor General Ministry
Crime Victims Assistance Program
Victim Services
VictimLINK (24 hrs)
Crisis line for victims of family violence or sexual assault
1-866-660-3888
Abbotsford
Chilliwack
Langley
Mission
604-864-4757
604-393-3024
604-532-3200
604-820-3504
1-800-563-0808
Other:
ABI Outreach Services
Contracted service provider for the Community Brain Injury
Program. For those who have trouble functioning; services include
housing and advocacy.
604-603-7592
BC Neuropsychiatry Program (Vancouver Coastal Health)
Serves adults with brain injury causing serious disturbances
in behaviour, mood, intellectual abilities or thinking processes
Offers inpatient unit and outpatient clinic at UBC Hospital
Referral (with physician‟s support) through Provincial
Coordinator at 604-822-7369
604-822-9758
Canadian Disabled Individuals Association (CDIA)
Provides a directory of resources and free services for disabled
individuals and service providers
Website:
604-301-1029
www.disabledindividuals.ca
Early Response Brain Injury Service (Concussion Service)
(Vancouver Coastal Health/GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre)
Early intervention program for people with mild TBI
604-714-4186
GF Strong Acquired Brain Injury Program
604-734-1313
Counsellors, Counselling Services and Support Services cont’d
Other cont’d:
Offers inpatient, outpatient, outreach and clinical support services
Website: www.gfstrong.vch.ca
Fraser Health Authority Acquired Brain Injury Program
Provides short term rehabilitation, neuropsychological
assessments and community support services
For those with limited or no third-party funding
Medical documentation of injury required
604-520-4175
Fraser Health Concussion Clinic (ABI Program)
Early intervention services for adults with concussion/mild TBI,
not work-related, serves entire Fraser Health region
Referrals up to 6 months post injury
604-520-4175
Mission City Home Support
604-826-9980
Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network (PLAN)
Helps set up personal support networks for people with mild TBI
Can also assist with financial issues and applying for benefits
604-439-9566
Website:
Self-Management Program for Chronic Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Offers a 10-session program to improve functional performance
Must be 6 months post-injury; physician‟s referral required
Self Management Programs
(Chronic Disease, Chronic Pain, Diabetes)
University of Victoria‟s Centre on Aging
Free, interactive 6-session workshops offered at a variety of
times and locations throughout BC. Self-referral
604-734-1313
Ext #2126
Toll-free
South Fraser Home Support Society
Toll-free
WorkSafe BC‟s Brain Injury Program
Focus is on early recognition of mild TBI and early education, and
may be coordinated with a graduated return-to-work program
Assessment and treatment are through community-based
facilities throughout the Lower Mainland
604-940-1273
1-866-902-3767
604-575-9030
Stroke Recovery Association of BC
Langley & Abbotsford/Mission Stroke Recovery Groups
www.plan.ca
604-688-3603
1-888-313-3377
604-882-4672
604-232-7787
Counsellors, Counselling Services and Support Services cont‟d
Hospice Societies:
Abbotsford Hospice Society
33134 Marshall Road
604-852-2456
Cascade Hospice (Home)
45586 McIntosh Drive, Chilliwack
604-795-6088
Chilliwack Hospice Society
45360 Hodgins Avenue
604-795-4660
Langley Hospice Society
May provide Home Nursing Care, Long Term Care,
Community Rehabilitation Services and Health
Services for Community Living, Grief Counselling
604-530-1115
Mission Hospice Society
7311 James Street, Unit E
604-826-2235
604-820-0704
Offer a range of programs designed to support
stroke survivors in the community after they
leave hospital and their caregivers. Branches
are located in: Abbotsford, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Langley,
Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows, Port Coquitlam, Surrey,
Tsawwassen/Delta &White Rock.
or
604-688-3603
Toll-free:
1-888-313-3377
Website: www.strokerecoverybc.ca
Drop In, Day Programs and Support Groups
organization has its own criteria for providing services.
For support groups and associations in your area, contact the Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association or refer
to the Headline, a Provincial news magazine on acquired brain injury in BC.
Contact the
[email protected] to receive the Headline four times a year and for an up to date listing of resources
and support groups throughout BC.
Drop in programs in Abbotsford, Chilliwack & Hope
Toll-free
Website:
604-557-1913
1-866-557-1913
www.fvbia.org
Communitas Supportive Care Society
Operates FVBIA Drop in programs in Abbotsford & Chilliwack
and Circles of Support for people with acquired brain injury
604-850-6608
Semiahmoo House Society
Day Programs & Drop In program in Surrey, BC.
Drop In is every Tuesday from 1:30 to 7:30 pm
Day Programs are Wednesday, Thursday, Friday - referral from
Fraser Health required
604-592-1006
Howe Sound Rehabilitation Services Society (Headway Centres)
Drop In programs in Vancouver and New Westminster
New Westminster
Scheduled programs also available
Vancouver
Centres operate Monday to Friday
604-936-9944
604-520-0130
604-732-4446
Education
Please contact the FVBIA for a list of Educational Consultants in your area.
Ministry of Advanced Education
Private Career Training Institutions Agency of BC
For information regarding post secondary education
Student Financial Assistance
Student Loans (Student Aid)
Website:
1-800-661-7441
www.pctia.bc.ca
250-387-6100
1-800-561-1818
Direct Line:
604-660-2610
Website:
www.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca
University of the Fraser Valley (Switchboard)
Students with disabilities (Chilliwack Resource Centre)
Students with Disabilities (Abbotsford)
Abbotsford Campus (Adult Ed)
*Call for information on services available for people with disabilities.
604-792-0025
604-795-2843
604-864-4609
604-504-7441
BC Adult Basic Education (ABE)
Website:
www.ufv.ca/uup/Adult_Dogwood.htm
The BC Adult Graduation Diploma (Adult Dogwood) is issued by the Government
of BC and can be earned through the Upgrading and University Preparation
Department at UFV.
For information, contact the nearest Upgrading and University Preparation (UUP)
office to discuss your education and career goals with an instructional assistant.
Abbotsford
604-854-4578
Abbotsford / Chilliwack
604-854-4597
604-792-0025
Ext 2534
Chilliwack
604-795-2807
Hope
604-869-9991
Mission 604-820-6015
Website:
www.ufv.ca/uup/Prospective_Students.htm
GED (General Educational Development) Preparation
The GED covers five subject areas and testing is held seven times per year
at UFV and at other sites throughout the province. The UFV Bookstore
carries self-study books including practice tests. The application form can
be completed online.
Website: http://www.ufv.ca/uup/GED.htm
Financial Services
Please note: Inclusion in this Information and Resource Manual does not guarantee eligibility for
services or financial assistance. Each organization has its own criteria for providing services.
Please contact the organization directly for further information.
BC Coalition of People with Disabilities
Advocacy Access Help line
1-800-663-1278
Advocacy group with respect to pension plan,
All programs except advocacy
604-872-1278
disability appeals, MHR and MCF,
Administration
604-875-0188
disability rights, building access and home support
Email:
[email protected]
Website:
www.bccpd.bc.ca
Chilliwack Community Services (debt counselling, legal advocacy)
Free non-judgmental service available to anyone with
Email:
financial problems
Website:
Ministry of Housing and Social Development:
Income Assistance, EI, CPP, Child Tax Benefits
Inquire about Disability Benefits
Abbotsford
Chilliwack /Agassiz
Hope
Mission
Langley
Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network (PLAN)
Assists with financial issues and applying for disability benefits
Canada Revenue Agency Business Information (24 hrs)
Federal Gas Tax Rebate can be as much as 1.5 cents per litre
Consumer Taxation Branch (Tax Info Line)
(Customer Service and Information Line)
Provincial Fuel tax rebate, 25% ICBC disability discount
604-792-4267
[email protected]
www.comserv.bc.ca
604-870-5811
604-703-6900
604-869-4929
604-814-1000
604-532-3666
Website:
604-439-9566
www.plan.ca
Toll-free:
1-800-959-5525
604-660-4524
Website: www.fin.gov.bc.ca/rev.htm
Credit Counselling Society of BC
Income Tax Discount
$4,200.00 credit or deduction for a person with a disability Contact
an accountant for more information about eligibility requirements.
1-888-527-8999
T2201 Form
BC Housing
Provides information on housing subsidies and low cost housing
1-800-257-7756
Homeowner‟s Grants Administration
Disability Grant for those who qualify for aid or reduction in property taxes
250-356-8904
1-888-355-2700
Financial Services cont’d:
Property tax deferment
- for local taxes, contact your local city hall
- for rural tax information- Enquiry BC
250-387-0555
Canada Mortgages and Housing
Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Programs (R.R.A.P.)
Funds renovations needed to accommodate any disabilities
Special Education Technology BC (Set BC)
Specialized equipment and funding
604-731-5733
1-800-639-3938
Tech Support Only
Website:
604-261-9450
1-866-738-3375
http://setbc.org
Government of Canada Income Security Programs
Old Age Security
Guaranteed Income Supplement
Canada Pension Plan
Survivors and Disabled Benefits
1-800-277-9914
CPP (Canadian Pension Plan)
*For TTY/DD device users only
*For Vocational Rehabilitation Program
*For service in French
1-800-277-9914
1-800-255-4786
1-800-277-9914
1-800-277-9915
CPP includes a disability pension, child and spouse benefits,
and death benefits. You may be eligible for a monthly
pension if you are under 65, have had to stop work because
of a medical condition and paid into the CPP for at least four
of the last six years or paid into CPP for at least 25 years and
made valid contributions to the Plan in three of the last six
years.
Canada Revenue Agency (Individual Income Tax Enquiries)
Hearing Impaired/TTY
Child Tax Benefits
Seniors‟ Supplement
1-800-959-8281
1-800-665-0354
1-800-387-1193
1-877-815-2363
Government Services
Enquiry Canada
Information on Federal Government services
Website:
Enquiry BC
Vancouver (Service BC)
Victoria (Service BC)
TDD/TTY
1-800-0-Canada
1-800-622-6232
http://canada.gc.ca
Toll-free
1-800-663-7867
604-660-2421
250-387-6121
1-800-661-8773
Email:
[email protected]
Website:
www.gov.bc.ca/bvprd/bc/index.do
Health Services
Each Health Authority has specific programs or departments for acquired brain injury services. Contact
your regional health authority office for information.
Health Authorities:
Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA) (Vancouver)
604-675-7400
Fraser Health Authority (Surrey)
Toll-free
Acquired Brain Injury Program
Interior Health Authority (Kelowna)
604-587-4600
1-877-935-5669
604-520-4175
250-862-4200
Northern Health Authority (Prince George)
Toll-free
250-565-2649
1-866-565-2999
Toll-free
604-736-2033
1-866-884-0888
Toll-free
250-370-8699
1-877-370-8699
Vancouver Coastal Health Authority (Vancouver)
Vancouver Island Health Authority (Victoria)
Other Health Services:
Adult and Youth Addiction Services
Lower Mainland
Outside Lower Mainland
604-660-9382
1-800-663-1441
BC NurseLine - “811 Health Link”
Toll-free
1-866-215-4700
BC Cancer Agency (Fraser Valley Centre)
Toll-free
1-800-523-2885
Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada
Toll-free
1-800-265-5106
Cerebral Palsy Association of BC (Vancouver)
Toll-free
1-800-663-0004
604-408-9484
Eating Disorder Resource Centre of BC (Kelty Resource Centre)
Toll-free
1-800 665-1822
Heart and Stroke Foundation of BC & Yukon
Research, health promotion and advocacy
Vancouver Office
Head Office
1-888-473-4636
604-736-4088
604-736-4404
Health and Seniors Information Line
Toll-free
1-800-465-4911
Healthy Kids Program
Toll-free
1-866-866-0800
Toll-free
604-732-9191
1-800-667-3438
Health Link BC – Dietician Services
Medical Services Plan (MSP) and Fair Pharmacare
Health Services Cont’d
Health Insurance BC (Outside Vancouver & Victoria)
(Vancouver area)
Website:
Toll-free
1-800-663-7100
604-683-7151
www.healthservices.gov.bc.ca/msp
Health Units:
Health Units can be contacted for information and help regarding nutrition,
speech and hearing, child development, dental, public health & other issues.
Fraser Health Authority Head Office
604-587-4600
Abbotsford Health Unit
#104 – 34194 Marshall Road
604-864-3400
Agassiz Health Unit
7243 Pioneer Ave, P.O. Box 104
604-793-7160
Chilliwack Heath Unit
45470 Menholm Road
604-702-4900
Hope Health Unit
444 Park Street
604-860-7630
Mission Health Unit
32618 Logan Ave
604-814-5500
Langley Public Health Unit
22033 Fraser Highway
604-539-2900
For contact information for Health Units outside the Fraser Valley, contact your
Health Authority (page 21)
Mental Health Centres:
Contact Mental Health for questions about mental health issues such as
depression.
Abbotsford
Agassiz Community Health Services
Chilliwack
Creative Centre Society (Abbotsford)
Hope (Adult)
Langley (Adult)
Mission
Child & Youth Mental Health
Mental Health Info Line
Mental Health After Hours Service
604-870-7800
604-793-7160
604-702-4860
604-850-1168
604-860-7733
604-514-7940
604-814-5600
Toll-free
Toll-free
604-514-2711
1-800-661-2121
1-877-384-8062
Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders:
Epilepsy and Seizure Education
BC Epilepsy Society, Vancouver
(Long Distance or Outside BC)
Website:
1-866-374-5377
604-875-6704
www.bcepilepsy.com
Website:
604-853-7399
www.epilepsy.cc
Toll-free
Website:
604-875-0188
1-800-663-1278
www.bccpd.bc.ca
Centre for Epilepsy & Seizure Education in BC (Abbotsford)
Sexual Health:
BC Coalition of Persons with Disabilities
Brain Wave Harmony
Health & Vitality Centre, Langley
Balances and optimizes brain to assist with
sexual function
Options for Sexual Health, Vancouver
Offers clinics, education services, advocacy
778-278-2220
Website: www.brainwaveharmony.ca
604-731-4252
www.optionsforsexualhealth.org
Website:
Sexual Health Services at G.F Strong Rehabilitation Centre/
Vancouver Hospital & Health Sciences Centre
Provides information and education services
Physician‟s referral required
The Sex Information and Education Council of Canada (SIECCAN)
Arrticles from “The Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality”
Website:
604-737-6233
www.gfstrong.vch.ca
Website:
416-466-5304
www.sieccan.org
Shade Consulting Ltd., Vancouver
Sexual Health & Disability Education
Website:
Offers social skills, lifeskills, and sexuality education
for people with disabilities and those who support them
Sexual Health and Fertility after Brain and Spinal Cord
Impairment
Being developed by practicing physicians and sexual
health nurses, covering a wide variety of topics
Website:
The Sexual Health Network
Provides easy access to sexuality information, education,
support and other resources
Sunny Hill Education Resource Centre (SHERC)/Family
Resource Library
Offers a free lending library of sexuality and disability
related resources within BC
604-434-9579
www.shadeconsulting.ca
www.scisexualhealth.com
Website: www.sexualhealth.com
Website: www.bcchildrens.ca
Special Equipment and Rehabilitation
organization has its own criteria for providing services and may charge a fee for services. Please
contact the organization directly for more information. This may not be a complete list of all
available services in your area.
Assistive Technology British Columbia
604-264-8295
The Disability Foundation, Tetra Society of North America
Non-profit society that conducts research and development
of technical aids. Recruits skilled engineers and technicians
to create the assistive devices. Individuals pay only for materials.
Toll-free
BC Association for Individualized Technology & Supports for People
With Disabilities
Toll-free
The Technology for Independent Living Program provides
technology to assist with communication and with managing
devices in the home.
Website:
BC Centre for Ability (Vancouver)
Individualized therapy and support service
(Community Brain Injury Program for Children and Youth)
Toll-free
Website:
Chilliwack & District Senior Resources Society
Has listings of people with medical equipment for sale
604-872-1278
www.bccpd.bc.ca
604-324-3611
1-877-324-3611
www.bcpara.org
604-793-9979
CNIB
Offers low vision services, peer support, information
Medichair
www.bcits.org
Toll-free
1-877-451-5511
Website: www.centreforability.bc.ca
Website:
GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre (Vancouver Coastal Health)
Provides rehabilitation and a variety of specialized servicesConsultation, assessment, evaluation, intervention, education
604-326-0175
1-866-326-1245
604-451-5511
BC Coalition for People with Disabilities
BC Paraplegic Association
Offers Swap „N Shop Forum
604-688-6464
1-877-688-8762
Toll-free
Website:
604-431-2121
1-800-563-2642
604-734-1313
www.gfstrong.com
Toll-free
Fraser Valley
1-800-667-0087
604-852-3191
Toll-free
604-473-9363
1-877-673-4636
Neil Squire Society
Offers assistive technology, “Computer Comfort”
Special Equipment and Rehabilitation Cont’d
Website:
www.neilsquire.ca
Website:
604-985-5371
www.nsdrc.org
Website:
604-232-2404
www.rcdrichmond.org
North Shore Disability Resource Centre
Richmond Centre for Disability
Rick Hansen Foundation
Toll-free
604-295-8149
1-800-213-2131
Red Cross Equipment Loans Cupboard:
Abbotsford (Monday-Saturday, 11:00am-1:00pm)
Chilliwack (Monday/Wednesday/Thursday/Friday 9:00am-12:00pm)
Langley (Monday-Friday: 9:00 am – 12:00)
604-556-3526
604-792-2343
604-881-1113
Canadian Red Cross Society - Aids to Independent Living Project
Provides medical equipment on a no-charge, long-term loan basis
604-709-6600
Rehabilitation Resources:
Acquired Brain Injury Program (Vancouver Coastal Health/
GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre)
Offers inpatient, outpatient and outreach services
Back in Motion (Richmond)
An early intervention program for people with mild TBI
604-737-6335
604-273-7600
Direct line
604-233-2348
Website: www.backinmotion.com
BC Rehab Foundation (Non-profit located at GF Strong)
Supports people with disabilities throughout BC through
education, research, activities, recreation and wellness programs
Columbia Speech and Language Services
Works with people who have communication disorders
stemming from a brain injury – word-finding problems,
disorganized or perseverative speech, difficulty understanding what is heard or read.
604-737-6383
Website: www.bcrehab.com
604-875-9100
Community Therapists or CTI (Occupational Therapy)
604-681-9293
Offers rehabilitation services for people with mild to severe
brain injury - education, functional assessments, at-home help
Links people to local community resources
Website: www.communitytherapists.com
Lifemark (Vancouver)
A Concussion Clinic for people who are at least 6 months
post-injury. Insurance referrals only; fee for service; province-wide
604-687-5911
Parley Services
604-868-5586
Offers support management services focusing on behavioural
problems and psychosocial needs. Goals are to empower and to
increase functional capacity and self-reliance
Province-wide services
Website: www.parleyservices.com
Raincoast Community Rehabilitation Services
604-444-3770
Specializes in community-based assessment, rehabilitation and
Toll-free 1-800-535-9988
treatment, vocational assessments and services, and long-term
support for people with TBI. Provides cognitive, psychosocial
and physical rehabilitation in the community. Litigation services . Website: www.raincoastrehab.ca
Spectrum Society for Community Living – Acquired Brain Injury Program
604-323-1433
A community-based program offering individualized one-to-one
lifeskills support, assisting people to maintain the highest level of
independence. Includes physical rehabilitation therapy, vocational support, lifeskills
Website: www.spectrumsociety.org
Occupational Therapy:
Contact Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association for Occupational Therapists
in your area who have experience working with people with acquired brain injury.
British Columbia Society of Occupational Therapists
Toll-free
Website:
604-736-5645
1-888-736-5645
www.bcsot.org
Speech & Language Therapy:
Contact Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association for Speech and Language Therapists
in your area who have experience working with people with acquired brain injury.
BC Association of Speech Language Pathologists
Website:
http://www.bcaslpa.ca/
Stroke Recovery:
Some Stroke Recovery Branches offer programs run by rehabilitation
604-688-3603
professionals.
Toll-free:1-888-313-3377
Website: www.strokerecoverybc.ca
Physiotherapy:
Abbotsford:
Abbotsford Chiropractic Center
220-3033 Immel Street, Abbotsford
Abbotsford Sports & Orthopaedic Physiotherapy
201-32920 Ventura Avenue, Abbotsford
604-850-6408
604-854-6310
Physiotherapy Cont’d
CBI Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Centre
4-34252 Marshall Road, Abbotsford
604-852-5655
Glenn Mountain Orthopaedic & Sports Physiotherapy Rehabilitation Centre
105-2526 Yale Court, Abbotsford
604-557-0198
McCallum Physiotherapy Clinic
204-2151 McCallum Road, Abbotsford
604-853-3443
OASIS (Orthopaedic & Sports Injury Services)
3106 Clearbrook Road, Abbotsford
604-855-0155
Pro Motion Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic
100A-2955 Gladwin Road, Abbotsford
604-852-3180
Sport & Spine Physiotherapy
2375 West Railway Street, Abbotsford
604-854-3545
Aldergrove:
Aldergrove Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Clinic
27-3100 272nd Street, Aldergrove
604-607-1414
Chilliwack:
Fraser Valley Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Centre
2-9145 Corbould Street, Chilliwack
220A-6640 Vedder Road, Chilliwack
604-792-2141
Lock Physiotherapist Corp
604-819-4248
Wickers D L
41-45905 Yale Road, Chilliwack
604-792-6979
604-824-0001
Langley:
Langley Physiotherapy Clinic
420-6325 204th Street, Langley
604-530-6511
OASIS (Orthopaedic & Sports Injury Services)
3-880 202nd Street, Langley
604-881-0155
Physiotherapy Cont’d
Mission:
Cedar Valley Physiotherapy & Pain Clinic
112-32423 Lougheed Highway, Mission
604-814-3336
McRae Avenue Physiotherapy Clinic
32724 McRae Avenue, Mission
604-820-1808
Mission Physiotherapy
C-32757 Logan Avenue, Mission
604-826-7729
604-826-7742
OASIS Physiotherapy Mission
7650 Grand Street, Mission (at Mission Leisure Centre)
604-820-8285
Other:
Abbotsford ACM Care Centre
11-2168 McCallum Road
For Pain & Stress Control, Anxiety & Depression
604-850-1088
Brain Wave Harmony
Health & Vitality Centre
105-19610 64th Avenue, Langley
Services include Physiotherapy, Hypnotherapy,
and Art Therapy in overcoming the results of TBI.
Balances and optimizes the brain to help with anxiety,
depression, stress, anger, memory problems.
Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA)
778-278-2220
Website: www.brainwaveharmony.ca
Website: www.catainfo.ca/directory_online.php
Cedar Valley Physiotherapy & Pain Clinic
Offers Classic Hatha Yoga for those suffering from
chronic pain, anxiety, stress and insomnia
Expressive Art Therapy (Abbotsford)
(S. Brooke Anderson)
604-814-3336
Website: www.sbandersonart.com
Mission Acupuncture Clinic
33460 Cardinal Street, Mission
604-820-8243
Murrayville Acupuncture
108-22314 Fraser Highway, Langley
604-308-6342
Sumas Mountain Chiropractic & Acupuncture
102-34609 Delair Road, Abbotsford
604-852-3930
Housing and Residential Services
BC Housing - Rental Assistance Program
Supportive Housing and rent subsidy program
for working families, emergency housing
604-433-2218
Toll-free
1-800-257-7756
Website: www.bchousing.org
BC Non-Profit Housing Association
Toll-free
Website:
Communitas Supportive Care Society (Abbotsford)
Individualized Living Options Program
Homeless Outreach Providers
604-850-6608
(Salvation Army)
(Salvation Army)
(Transition Society)
(Stepping Stone)
(Community Services)
Abbotsford
Chilliwack
Hope
Langley
Mission
Howe Sound Rehabilitation Services Society
Assisted Independent Living Program provides accommodation
options, family care homes and semi-independent living
Residential Tenancy Office
Provides information about your rights as a tenant/
landlord, and dispute resolution services.
Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC)
604-291-2600
1-800-494-8859
www.bcnpha.ca
604-852-9305
604-792-0001
604-869-5111
604-530-5033
604-826-3634
604-936-9944
1-800-665-8779
Website: www.rto.gov.bc.ca
Admin
604-255-3099
Information Hotline 604-255-0546
Toll-free
1-800-665-1185
Tenants‟ Rights Coalition
Toll-free
1-800-665-1185
Vancouver Resource Society
Provides accessible housing with support services
Assisted living, independent living, apartment living
Website:
604-731-1020
www.vrs.org
Housing and Residential Services Cont’d
Private Residential Facilities:
Group Home Providers:
Lower Mainland/Fraser Valley
L & T Services
#202 - 2661 Kingsway
Vancouver, BC
V5R 5H4
Hylan Home
32223 Hylan Avenue
Abbotsford, BC
V2T 1S8
Connect Langley (Connect Communities)
20445 - 73A Avenue
Langley, BC
V2Y 1V1
Website:
Fax:
604-439-7545
604-439-1326
Fax:
604-850-8122
604-850-8176
604-534-0705
www.connectcommunities.ca
Classic Caregivers
1550 - 1200 W. 73rd Ave.
Vancouver, BC
V6P 6G5
Cheshire Home Society
#202 – 625 5th Ave
New Westminster, BC
V3M 1X4
Evergreen Cottages
8382 – 156th Ave
Surrey, BC
V3S 3R7
1-888-263-5168
604-540-0686
604-540-0684
Fax:
Fax:
604-597-7906
604-597-9025
Bear Creek House
13799 88th Avenue
Surrey, BC
V3W 3L2
604-936-9944
Guildford Glen House
#27-14880 101a Ave.
Surrey, BC
V3R 7V5
604-936-9944
Housing and Residential Services Cont’d
Private Residential Facilities:
Kamloops
Westsyde Care Residence
2980 Westsyde Road
Kamloops, BC
V2B 7E9
Ponderosa Community Respite Program
425 Columbia Street
Kamloops, BC
V2C 2T4
Fax:
250-579-7675
250-579-7682
Fax:
250-374-5735
250-374-5799
Fax:
250-762-4378
250-762-0167
Kelowna
Avonlea Care Centre Limited
1658 Blondeaux Crescent
Kelowna, BC
V1Y 4J7
Connect Lake Country (Connect Communities)
11438 Bottom Wood Lake Road
Winfield, BC
V4V 1V4
250-469-9358
Victoria
Cridge Centre for the Family
MacDonald House (B I Services)
1251 Santa Rosa Avenue
Victoria, BC
V8Z 2V5
Fax:
250-479-5299
250-479-2490
Fax:
250-562-6265
250-562-6264
Fax:
250-564-2447
250-564-6928
Prince George
Prince George Brain Injury
Group Society (Quince Street House)
2012 Quince Street
Prince George, BC
V2L 5B4
(Office)
1237 4th Ave
Prince George, BC
V2L 3J5
.
There may be other qualified family care homes in your area. Please contact your local brain injury
association for more information. Your local Health Authority may have housing resources as well if you
qualify for services
Internet Resources
Alberta Brain Injury Help Line
BC Brain Injury Association
Brain Games & Education (interactive site)
Brain Injury Association of America
Brainstreams
BrainTrust Canada (COBIS)
Bulkley Valley Brain Injury Association
Central Okanagan Brain Injury Society
Centre for Neuro Skills TBI Resource Guide
Comox Valley Head Injury Society
Kamloops Brain Injury Association
Nanaimo Brain Injury Society
Northern Alberta Brain Injury Society
Ontario Brain Injury Association
Pacific Coast Brain Injury Conference
Prince George Brain Injured Group Society
South Okanagan Similkameen BI Society
Stroke Recovery Canada
Tools for Living
The Healing Exchange – Brain Trust
The Perspective Network
Traumatic Brain Injury Resource Centre
Victoria Brain Injury Society
Waiting While Someone is in a Coma
http://www.abihelp.org
www.bcbraininjuryassociation.com
www.lumosity.com
www.biausa.org
www.brainstreams.ca
http://braintrustcanada.com
www.bvbia.ca
www.braintrustcanada.com
www.neuroskills.com
www.cvhis.org; www.cvheadinjury.com
www.fvbia.org
www.kbia.ca
www.nbis.ca
www.nabis.ab.ca
www.obia.on.ca
www.pcbic.org
www.pgbig.ca
www.sosbis.com
www.strokerecoverycanada.com
www.strokerecoverybc.ca
www.livingafterbraininjury.com
www.braintrust.org
www.tbi.org
www.braininjuryresources.org
www.vbis.ca
www.waiting.com
Jobs, Skills and Training
Abbotsford Community Living (Abbotsford Community Services)
604-870-4972
Abbotsford Community Services - Employment Development Office
Free 1:1 counselling related to issues surrounding barriers to
employment and physical disabilities
604-859-7681
Agassiz-Harrison Community Employment Services
604-796-0266
Bowman Employment Services
Funding for training if unemployed, 15 to 30 & not eligible for E.I.
Toll-free
604-504-5515
1-877-504-5515
Toll-free
Chilliwack
604-859-6790
1-866-859-6790
604-702-0361
CARE (Career Assistance & Resources for Employment)
Must be unemployed, working under 20 hours per week, or on E.I.
Abbotsford
Mission
604-755-3388
604-814-0732
Career & Employment Zone (CEZ)
Aldergrove
Langley
604-607-6718
604-534-8874
Bridging the Gap (Employment Readiness for Women)
604-792-4267
Chilliwack Employment Services (CES)
604-702-4664
Chilliwack Society for Community Living
Must qualify for services by IQ level
604-792-7726
Community Employment Resource Centre
Must be unemployed or working fewer than 20 hrs per week
Community Employment Services
Community Futures – Fraser Valley Self Employment Program
Community Futures South Fraser
Community Skills Centre
Chilliwack
Langley
604-793-6670
604-534-8874
Agassiz
604-796-0266
Abbotsford
Chilliwack
Toll-free
604-864-5770
604-793-4334
1-877-827-8249
Aldergrove
Langley
Mission
778-908-2784
604-532-3808
604-826-0626
Compass Setting Career Directions (MCC Employment Centre)
Douglas College Foundations Workplace Skills
Must be unemployed or working fewer than 20 hours per week
604-859-4500
Abbotsford
Chilliwack
604-852-5520
604-793-9050
Jobs, Skills and Training Cont’d
Employment Program for Persons with Disabilities
Ministry of Social Development Information Line
For those who want to volunteer, work full-time, part-time, or
be self-employed - if not funded through ICBC, WorkSafe BC or
on long-term disability. Individualized services include career
planning, skill assessment, pre-employment, job training, placement
and supports (including disability), transportation assistance)
* Vancouver Coastal Open Door Group
(formerly THEO BC)
*Fraser Region – WCG International HR Solutions
Toll-free
1-866-866-0800
Vancouver
Fraser
1-866-377-3670
1-866-689-7150
Fraser Valley Skills Link Work Experience Program
Must be 15 to 30, unemployed, referral required
Abbotsford
Toll-free
Chilliwack
Toll-free
604-504-5515
1-877-504-5515
604-703-1505
1-866-700-1505
Fraser Valley Wage Subsidy Program (Bowman)
Must be unemployed and receiving EI or on EI in the last 3 years
Abbotsford
Toll-free
Chilliwack
Toll-free
604-504-5515
1-877-504-5515
604-703-1505
1-866-700-1505
Jobwave Job Seekers‟ Club (Buxton Consulting)
Chilliwack
604-792-2807
Langley Association for Community Living
Must qualify for services by IQ level
604-534-8611
MCC Employment Centre (group learning, online participation)
No specific focus on disabilities, must be unemployed or working
fewer than 20 hours per week
604-859-4500
Mission Association for Community Living
604-826-9080
MSA Society for Community Living (Abbotsford)
604-852-6800
Neil Squire Society Employment Program for Persons with Disabilities
Toll-free
604-217-4847
1-877-673-4636
Must be unemployed / underemployed and have a physical
disability that is a barrier to employment
Open Door Group (Open Door Social Services Society)
604-876-0773
(Formerly THEO BC)
Helps people to find employment, identifies hiring needs, provides
Toll-free
1-866-377-3670
information and support around accommodations and puts forward
qualified candidates based on matching skills and abilities
Supports employers to hire persons with disabilities and barriers to
employment
Website: www.opendoorgroup.org
Vancouver and Richmond areas only
Jobs, Skills & Training Cont’d:
Raincoast Community Rehabilitation Services
Provides vocational assessments and services
Toll-free
604-444-3770
1-800-535-9988
Website: www.raincoastrehab.ca
Service Canada Centre
Abbotsford
Chilliwack
604-854-5852
604-792-1371
Strategic Success @ Work
Abbotsford
604-854-6292
Student Services at Thompson Rivers University (Open University)
Toll-free
Triangle Community Resources
Chilliwack
Langley
Mission
Abbotsford
Abbotsford
Chilliwack
604-792-8000
604-539-9850
604-814-0052
604-859-0033
604-854-1500
604-792-8000
Abbotsford
Toll-free
Chilliwack
Mission
Buxton Consulting
Toll-free
604-556-0411
1-866-689-7150
604-795-5988
604-814-0626
604-792-2807
1-866-689-7150
RITE - 6 week program for men
WRITE - 6 week program for women
Aboriginal Outreach
Triumph Vocational Services
Must have a medically verified disability
Vocational Rehabilitation Program – GF Strong Rehabilitation
Centre/Vancouver Coastal Health
Provides supportive counselling, assessment and guidance,
graduated return-to-work program, liaison with employers and
insurance plan consultants, obtaining funding and benefits,
exploring job accommodations
604-734-1313
Work Exploration Program (Kwantlen College – Langley)
For students with disabilities
The Workforce
1-800-663-9711
604-599-3215
Boston Bar/Hope
604-869-2279
Youth Employment Resource Centre (YERC)
Free services to unemployed/underemployed youth 15 to 30
Abbotsford
Langley
604-859-9454
604-534-8874
Youth Employment Zone
Assists youth to develop job search skills
Langley
604-514-3110
Other Work Related Resources:
Workers‟ Compensation Appeal Tribunal (WCAT)
1-800-663-2782
Worker‟s Compensation Board (WorkSafe BC)
WorkSafe BC Claim Reporting & Information Centre
WorkSafe Emergency Line after 4:30 pm
Toll-free
1-888-967-5377
1-866-922-4357
Workers‟ Advisors Office- assists injured workers
Toll-free
1-800-663-4261
Employment Standards Information Line
*Monday – Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm
1-800-663-3316
Website: http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/
Legal
Whoever is responsible for choosing the lawyer should ensure that the lawyer being considered is familiar
and knowledgeable about acquired brain injury issues. Because some people are hesitant to actually
“interview” a lawyer, we would suggest that you not even start the process without first inquiring at the
FVBIA for names of lawyers in your area with experience in brain injury. Please see page 57 for a list of
questions that you should ask if you do interview a lawyer.
Access to Justice Legal Services: legal information and court
preparation provided by volunteer lawyers
604-792-4267
604-393-3251
Nidus Personal Planning Resource Centre & Registry
Representation Agreement Resource Centre (Vancouver)
604-408-7414
Find out about your rights on making health care decisions and
what might happen if you become incapable of making decisions
(representation agreements, powers of attorney).
For Legal Aid services, contact your local Community Services.
UBC Law Students' Legal Advice Program (Poverty Law)
604-822-5791
Transunion
For people under threat of being taken advantage of or the victims
of identity theft.
Toll-free
1-800-663-9980
Equifax
For people under threat of being taken advantage of or the victims
of identity theft.
Toll-free
1-800-465-7166
Multicultural/Aboriginal Services
Aboriginal Services:
Aboriginal Housing
Aboriginal Homeless Outreach Program (Housing Matters BC)
Vancouver
604-251-7200
Provides access to housing, income assistance, communitybased support services Available through the Salvation Army in Abbotsford, Chilliwack
Aboriginal Transformative Justice Services
Kla-how-eya Aboriginal Centre of Surrey Aboriginal Cultural Society
BC Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (BCANDS)
Provides a variety of support services and resources to promote
the betterment of aboriginal people with disabilities
604-251-7200
Surrey
604-584-2625
250-381-7303
Toll-free
1-888-815-5511
Website: www.bcands.bc.ca
Chehalis Band Office
604-796-2116
Community Futures – CFDC Sto:lo
Unit 29 – 6014 Vedder Road, Chilliwack
Offers business support, lending and training
604-858-0009
Mamele‟ Awt Qweesome Housing Society
604-820-3324
Matsqui Indian Band
31989 Harris, Abbotsford
604-826-6145
Mission Aboriginal Family Place
604-820-4693
Mission Indian Friendship Centre Society
33150-A 1st Avenue, Mission
604-826-1281
Seabird Band Office
604-796-2177
Sto:lo Employment Services
Bldg 5, 7201 Vedder Road, Chilliwack
604-847-3299
Sto:lo Nation
Sto:lo Nation , Xyolhemeylh
604-858-0468
604-858-0113
Xolhemet Society
Supports victims of family violence, offers shelter, housing,
Transition House, resources, legal advocacy
604-858-0468
Xyolhemeylh Child & Family Services
2335 McCallum Road, Abbotsford
5-7201 Vedder Road, Chilliwack
34110 Lougheed Highway, Mission
604-870-5888
604-824-2518
604-820-2595
Multicultural Services:
Abbotsford Community Services – Immigrant Services
604-859-7681
Provides legal assistance, assistance with disability applications
Website: www.abbotsfordcommunityservices.com
Affiliation of Multicultural Societies and Service Agencies of BC (AMSSA)
Includes over 75 multicultural agencies providing immigrant settlement
and multicultural services
Toll-free
Links to Multicultural Health, Immigrant Settlement and Integration,
and Multiculturalism and Diversity
Website:
Has online resources and research/publications
Links to Lower Mainland Community Services by region
Burnaby Chinese Brain Injury Support Group
Meets twice monthly
Cantonese, Mandarin and English spoken
604-718-2780
1-888-355-5560
www.amssa.org
604-877-8606
604-792-4267
Website: www.comserv.bc.ca
DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society (DCRS) (Surrey)
Immigrant Services Society of BC (ISS) (Vancouver)
Provides a variety of services – educational, settlement, and
employment
Promotes integrated and equitable communities
Website:
604-597-0205
www.dcrs.ca
Website:
604-684-2561
www.issbc.org
Indo Canadian Seniors‟ Society
778-552-7227
Langley Community Services Society
Website:
Mission Community Services Society (MCSS)
Website:
604-534-7921
www.lcss.ca
604-826-3634
www.missioncommunityservices.com
Multi-Lingual Orientation Service Association for Immigrant
Communities (MOSAIC) (Vancouver)
Addresses issues affecting immigrants and refugees during
settlement and integration. No fee Employment Programs,
English Language Centres. Family Programs focusing on
Early Childhood Development and Education, Violence
Prevention & Counselling, and Youth;
Family Support Programs; Multicultural Victim Services Program;
Community Outreach; Interpretation & Translation Services
604-254-9626
Website: www.mosaicbc.com
Multicultural/Aboriginal Services Cont’d
OPTIONS: Surrey Community Services Society
Pacific Immigrant Resources Society (PIRS) (Vancouver)
Provides programs and services for immigrant women and
their young children
Provides opportunities to develop knowledge, skills and
confidence needed to participate more actively in the
community
More than 40 different languages spoken
604-596-4321
Website: www.options.bc.ca
604-298-5888
Website:
www.pirs.bc.ca
Website:
604-596-7722
www.pics.bc.ca
Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society (PICS)
SUCCESS (Vancouver)
Offers advocacy, social, educational and health services to
persons of diverse ethnic descent
Vancouver Multicultural Society
Represents ethno-cultural communities in the Lower Mainland
Coordinates public education and advocacy projects that
increase knowledge and acceptance of diversity issues, human
rights and anti-racism
604-684-1628
Website:www.successbc.ca
604-731-4648
Recreation and Leisure
Leisure Centres:
Please contact the recreation/leisure centre in your area for information regarding how to qualify for
discount prices based on income or disability, or for adapted programs if you need them. Try something
new, like tai chi or yoga. Chances are, you‟ll feel better, and these programs can be a great way to get
involved in your community at the same time!
Abbotsford:
Abbotsford Recreation Centre
604-853-4221
Matsqui Recreation Centre
604-855-0500
Taoist Tai Chi Society
Offers regular tai chi classes only
604-795-4040
www.taoist.org
Website:
Aldergrove:
Aldergrove Kinsmen Community Centre
604-856-2899
Aldergrove Neighbourhood Services (Activity Information)
604-857-4662
Chilliwack:
Cheam Leisure Centre (YMCA)
604-824-0231
Chilliwack Family YMCA
Has adapted aquatics (4 levels) and pool is accessible via lift
604-792-3371
Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre
604-793-7946
Pacific Riding for the Disabled
A non-profit society run by volunteers, offering a unique form of
physiotherapy for children and young adults with physical
disabilities. No Fee.
604-858-2149
Hope:
FVBIA Hope Leisure Program
Toll-free
Hope Recreation Centre
604-557-1913
1-866-557-1913
604-869-2304
Recreation/ Leisure Cont’d:
Langley:
Al Anderson Memorial Pool
4949 207 Street, Langley
604-514-2860
Douglas Recreation Centre
20550 Douglas Crescent, Langley
604-514-2866
Pacific Riding for Developing Abilities (PRDA)
Offers therapeutic equestrian activities and educational
opportunities for people with disabilities
604-530-8717
Website:
www.prda.ca
Taoist Tai Chi Society, Surrey/Langley
Offers adapted tai chi classes
Website:
604-507-0700
www.taoist.org
Timms Community Centre
20355 Douglas Crescent, Langley
604-514-2940
Valley Therapeutic Equestrian Association.
3330-256 Street, Langley
Offers horseback riding opportunities for people with disabilities
604-857-1267
Walnut Grove Community Centre
604-882-0408
W.C. Blair Recreation Centre
604-533-6170
Mission:
Mission Leisure Centre
7650 Grand Street, Mission
604-820-5350
Social/Recreational Resources in the Lower Mainland:
ABI Community Leisure Program (CLP)
(Howe Sound Rehabilitation Services Society)
A community-based individualized day program operating
weekdays and focusing on leisure, social and recreational
activities
Based in New Westminster and Surrey
Referral from Fraser Health ABI Program required
BC Mobility Opportunities Society (Disability Foundation)
Provides challenging outdoor recreation activities
604-936-9944
604-688-6464
Website: www.disabilityfoundation.org
BC Wheelchair Sports Association (Vancouver)
Provides opportunities for athletes with physical disabilities
604-333-3520
Disabled Sailing Association of BC
(Disability Foundation)
Offers supported sailing instruction in adapted sailboats
604-688-6464
Website: www.disabledsailingbc.org
Disabled Skiers Association of BC (DSABC) (Richmond)
Offers adaptive snow sports
604-333-3630
Friday Frappe Frenzy
Meets at 7 pm on the 4th Friday of the month at Blenz Coffee
(the corner of 6th Street and 6th Avenue) in New Westminster
A social event open to everyone
604-540-9234
Gardening DIGA (Disabled Independent Gardeners Association)
604-688-6464
Adaptations for various types of gardens and equipment,
workshops
Website: www.disabilityfoundation.org/diga
Jewish Community Centre of Greater Vancouver
Offers weekly rehab swim classes, skills and exercises
604-257-5111
Kickstart (Disability Arts & Culture), Burnaby
Website:
604-292-1296
www.kickstart-arts.ca
Stan Strong Pool (Out of George Pearson Centre)
A warm, wheelchair accessible pool offering learn to swim
lessons, exercise and recreational swimming.
(A medical form is needed for access)
Stand up for Mental Health
Stand up comedy performed by mental health
consumers & people with brain injuries
604-321-3231
Website:
604-707-0483
www.standupformentalhealth.com
Step by Step (Adapted Walking Program)
(GF Strong Rehabilitation)
A modified weekly walking program
604-737-6413
Surrey Parks, Recreation & Culture
Outreach and Support Services
or
Taoist Tai Chi Society, Vancouver
Offers adaptive tai chi classes
Vancouver Adapted Music Society (VAMS)
Provides equipment allowing involvement in making
music and performing
Website:
604-502-6321
604-502-6353
604-681-6609
www.taoist.org
604-688-6464
Website:
www.vams.org
Vancouver Adapted Snow Sports (VASS)
Offers ski and snowboard programs at Grouse, Seymour
and Cypress Mountains for people with disabilities
Vancouver Parks Board Adapted Programs (Access Services)
Offers a wide range of adapted programs and facilities for
people with disabilities
604-646-8277
Website:
www.vass.ca
604-257-8500
Recipe for Life
Great chefs know that there is no getting around it. The secrets to any good recipe are
amazing ingredients and lots of slow, steady blending. This Recipe for Life has it all!
Preparation Time: As long as it takes
Yields: 1 happy individual
Serves: Everyone
Ingredients:








1 part of Enthusiasm
1 part Interest
1 dash of Hope for the Future
1 part Strength
1 part Courage
1 part Openness
Add Growth to taste
Garnishes: Fun, Joy & Spirit
Directions:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
In life‟s blender, gently mix 1 part enthusiasm with 1 part interest until anticipation rises.
Tease in 1 part openness to explore new possibilities.
Toss out any self-doubt.
Add 1 dash of hope for the future. Mix ingredients until smooth.
When lumps of doubt are gone, add 1 part strength to become involved.
With care, gently add 1 more part courage to make the call.
Carefully nurture the budding involvement until ingredients are fully- blended.
Add growth to taste.
Garnish with sprigs of fun, joy and spirit.
Enjoy for a lifetime!
Nutrients per Serving:
3 jigs of Happiness
2 jigs Satisfaction
1 jig of Wellbeing
Mary McKee, Carol Paetkau
Seniors’ Services
Abbotsford Community Services - Seniors‟ Services Department
Meals on Wheels, medical transportation, Community Response
Network
604-870-3772
604-870-3764
Abbotsford Peer Support for Seniors
604-850-0011
Abbotsford Senior Health Awareness
604-853-5541
Abbotsford Seniors Association
Drop In Centre, social activities, wellness
checkups, computer classes
604-853-4014
Aldergrove Veterans and Seniors Society
604-856-3271
B C Centre for Elder Advocacy & Support
Seniors Help and Information Line
Provides assistance and support to those who are or
may be abused or whose rights have been violated
Toll-free
Bus Passes for Seniors
604-437-1940
1-866-437-1940
1-866-866-0800
Chilliwack Community Services (4 offices)
Offers a variety of services including Seniors‟ Advocate,
assistance with income tax & government forms,
specialized victim assistance
604-792-4267
Chilliwack & District Seniors‟ Resources Society
Offers a variety of services and programs including social recreation,
activities, education, housing, day programs, grocery shopping, bus
tours, assistance with forms and letters
604-793-9979
Community Information Resource Bureau for Seniors
(Abbotsford Community Services)
604-870-3763
Driving Miss Daisy Seniors‟ Services
Provides accompaniment and assistance with transportation
604-302-0479
Friendship House Society (Abbotsford)
604-853-9716
Health Canada
Printable “Services for Seniors Guide”
Website: www.seniors.gc.ca
www.hc-sc.gc.ca
Health and Seniors‟ Information Line
Toll-free
1-800-465-4911
Indo Canadian Seniors‟ Society
778-552-7227
Mission Seniors‟ Connection
(Mission Community Services)
604-826-3634
Seniors’ Services Cont’d
Old Age Security & Canada Pension Plan
1-800-277-9914
SAFER (Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters)
(Seniors‟ Supportive Housing)
Helps make rents affordable for BC seniors with low
to moderate incomes
Accessible, affordable housing with support services
604-433-2218
1-800-257-7756
Toll-free
Website: www.bchousing.org
Seniors Healthy Aging Resource Society
Friendly Visiting Program
Seniors‟ Supplement
or
Toll-free
604-557-2879
604-854-1793
1-877-815-2363
** Also check for local Community Services listed on page 10 and Health Services listed on page 21.
Transportation
Community Drivers:
Abbotsford Community Services
Provides rides to medical and therapy appointments
Run by volunteers
HandyDART:
Abbotsford & Mission
Chilliwack
Langley/Surrey/White Rock/Aldergrove
Register first at Access Transit
Chilliwack
Abbotsford
604-792-4267
604-859-7681
604-855-0080
604-795-5121
604-575-6600
778-452-2860
Driver Rehabilitation and Testing:
The cognitive, emotional and physical changes associated with brain injury can affect a person‟s driving
ability. Problems with attention, concentration, judgment, problem solving, decision making and speed of
information processing can all lead to unsafe driving practices. Noise and sights may cause distraction,
irritation and/or agitation. Physical changes may affect the ability to control a vehicle, and reflexes and
reaction times may be slower. Poor visual/auditory and perceptual skills also have an effect on a
person‟s ability to drive safely. When these problems occur, a comprehensive driving evaluation by a
driver rehabilitation specialist can assist with determination of safe driving potential.
BC Driver Rehab Programs are best for clients who have a goal and potential to resume driving. The
goal of Driver Rehab is to assist clients to resume driving, offering assessments, lessons, compensatory
strategies and vehicle modification (if needed) to enable participation in Driving as an Activity of Daily
Living. (FIT Consultants)
***Drive Able Programs are best for clients who have dementia, progressive cognitive conditions with
memory impairments (not clients with TBI or visual and /or physical impairments). (FIT Consultants)
Community Therapists “Functional Driving Evaluation”
604-681-9293
Driver Rehabilitation conducted by OT‟s in partnership with
Ext #153
physician, driving instructor and the Driver Fitness Program (OSMV)
Includes off-road remediation and on-road retraining
Serves Vancouver, Surrey, Fraser Valley
Website: www.communitytherapists.com
Driver Rehabilitation Program at George Pearson Centre/GF Strong Centre
604-322-8335
Offers in-clinic assessments, on-road assessments, on-road
rehabilitation, lessons and vehicle/equipment assessments
Access to OT‟s, driving schools, recognized by SMV
Requires physician‟s or OSMV referral
Serves Vancouver area; fee for service
Functional Independence Therapy (FIT) Consultants
Offers adapted driving assessments, low vision driving assessments,
equipment consultations, on-road lessons
Province-wide mobile service
604-263-5286
Transportation Cont’d
Holy Family Hospital Driver Rehabilitation Program
Offers driver screening, driving assessments and lessons
Serves Vancouver area
604-322-2617
Superintendent of Motor Vehicles (Victoria)
Or Toll-Free through Enquiry BC
ICBC
Driver Licensing Centre/General Enquiries
250-387-7747
1-800-663-7867
604-661-2800
1-800-663-3051
1-800-950-1498
1-888-715-7775
Driver Licensing Services
Road Test Booking Line
ICBC does not engage in driver rehabilitation, but on the recommendation of an occupational
therapist, ICBC‟s Rehab Coordinator may refer insured individuals to a driver rehabilitation program.
The costs would be covered by the insured‟s Part 7.
Other:
BC Ferries
1-888-223-3779
Bus Passes for seniors and persons with disabilities
Toll-free
1-866-866-0800
MSP Automated Service (Travel Assistance Program)
All Medical Service Plan (MSP) subscribers are eligible for
free passenger fare for the patient and escort
(approved by your physician)
Toll-free
Or
1-800-661-2668
250-952-2657
Northern Thunderbird Air (Vancouver)
Toll-free
1-800-663-3905
Via Rail
Physician-approved escort travels free.
Website:
1-888-842-7245
www.viarail.ca
Resources and Services for the
Bellingham and Sumas, Washington, USA Region
This is not a complete list of services available in the State of Washington. Please contact the Brain Injury
Association of Washington for such services as legal information, educational consultants, occupational
consultants, health matters and any other necessary services.
Brain Injury Association of Washington
TBI Help Line
206-897-5755
1-877-824-1766
Toll Free
360-671-5714
360-715-1563
1-877-715-1563
Claims - Toll-Free
Website:
360-647-7300
1-800-547-8367
www.lni.wa.gov
401 Broadway, 4th Floor
Seattle, WA 98122
E-mail: [email protected]
Home Page: http://www.biawa.org; www.braininjurywa.org
Community Services:
Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County
**24 Hour Hotline
24 hour a day help line for crisis and service information. They
can direct you to food banks, transportation information and
various other services in your area.
Government Agencies:
Bellingham Department of Labour & Industries
Employment Standards
1-866-219-7321
Injury / Hospitalization Reporting
1-800-423-7233
Social Security
*Financial assistance based on either Social Security Insurance
or supplemental security income based on financial need.
1-800-772-1213
Website:
www.ssa.gov
Recreation / Leisure:
Bellingham Parks and Recreation
360-778-7000
Whatcom County Parks and Recreation
360-733-2900
YMCA- Bellingham
*Located at 1256 N. State St. in Bellingham
360-733-8630
YMCA- Lynden
*Located at 100 Drayton St. in Lynden
360-354-5000
Rehabilitation Facilities:
This is not a complete list of services offered in the state of Washington. Please contact the Brain Injury
Association of Washington for a complete listing.
Bellingham
St. Joseph Hospital, 809 East Chestnut (South Campus)
Outpatient, Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy Clinic.
360-715-6420
St. Joseph Hospital, 2901 Squalicum Parkway (Main Campus)
ER, Medical Services, Diagnostic and/or Treatment Services,
Nursing Services, Support Services.
360-734-5400
Providence Everett Medical Centre, 916 Pacific Ave (Pacific Campus)
P.O. Box 1067
Everett WA, 98201
Rehab Unit
Main Switchboard (Information)
425-258-7600
425 -261-2000
Tacoma:
Tacoma General Hospital & Mary Bridge Children‟s Hospital
315 Martin Luther King Jr. Way Tacoma WA 98405
Inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services
253-403-1000
St. Joseph Medical Centre
1717 South J Street Tacoma WA 98405
Inpatient, outpatient and home health rehabilitation services
253-426-4101
Serving Greater Seattle and Spokane Areas:
Rehab without walls
Provides comprehensive barrier free rehabilitation services in the home.
425-672-9219
Brain Injury Associations/Support Groups for Washington, USA
Bellingham (Health Support Centre)
Family Caregiver Network (Snohomish County)
(Family Caregiver Resource Program)
Website:
360-733-6714
425-290-1240
1-800-422-2024
www.snocare.org
Tips for Stress Management
The harder you find it to spare 20 minutes a day for relaxation, the more desperately you probably need it.
The following is a list of things that we can do for self-care:

Gather your support system – Identify the people you know you can talk to and give yourself
permission to do that.

Express your anger – It is normal and healthy to feel angry at times. Express that anger in positive
ways. Remember anger can be a great motivator.

Get political - Educate yourself on the issues that are causing you this distress. Write letters, sign
petitions. Turn your anger at the injustice into something positive.

Keep a journal or write letters – Writing down your feelings is a way of letting them go. You may
want to write an angry or sad letter to someone. Your decision to send the letter is not as important
as being able to express your emotions.

Exercise – Whether it is walking, tennis, or aerobics, exercise gives a healthy release of emotions.

Talk to a co-worker – Try to find an opportunity in each day to process with a trusted co-worker who
you know will listen without judging.

Enjoy the outdoors – Try walking outside and taking a minute to allow all your senses to work. It
may help you to clear your mind and equip you to put things into perspective.

Allow room for creativity – Not all of us have the skills of an artist, a poet, or a painter, and creative
activities can serve as great outlets and can also be fun. There are many different ways to be
creative; try cooking, baking, home decorating or gardening

Get silly – Humour is a great way to release tension. Tap into your child self; do something
unexpected like blow bubbles out the window of your car while in a traffic jam and so forth….Be
creative!

Find time for yourself - At work we are often struggling
to meet the needs of others and for many of us, home
can be much the same. Take some time for yourself to
do the things you need to do. Scheduling some private
time every day so that taking care of yourself becomes
a habit. Consider taking a day-off from your regular
responsibilities for no other reason than to indulge
yourself. REMEMBER - YOU DESERVE IT!

Make a list – of all the wonderful things you can do for
yourself such as having a hot bath by candlelight, read poetry, lie on the grass and watch the stars,
eat Italian ice cream, etc.
How to Know When You are Stressed
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Sleep disturbances, Insomnia
Intestinal pain
Lack of concentration
Resentment
Rapid pulse
Shallow Breathing
Feeling that you are no longer in control
Decrease in sex hormones
Sore jaw, headaches
Compromised immune system (colds, flu)
Diarrhea
Hardening of the arteries
Fatigue
Lack of appetite
Feeling dozy or yawning
High uric acid levels causing gout
High blood pressure
“Spacing out” – forgetting things
Benefits of Humour in Your Life
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Coping strategy
Reduced tension, anxiety and stress – lower stress hormones
Increased creativity, learning, motivation and energy
Increased immunity – releases immunoglobulin A
Reduced blood pressure, heart and respiration rate
Reduced pain by releasing endorphins
Improved creative problem solving
Increased productivity
Improved relationships, camaraderie
You CAN return to balance everyday. Your reaction is your choice!
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Will this matter in two years?
How else might I look at this? Is there another less stressful way I could do this?
What is the situation teaching me? What can I learn from this?
What would a calm person do?
Can I actually change this situation? If not, how can I make peace with this?
What old fear is being expressed?
Is this a good time for a strategic pause?
Is this something that I can avoid in the future? How?
Am I being a perfectionist here? Is “good enough” good enough?
What is the worst that can happen here?
What unexpected good could come out of this?
Is this reaction based in reality or is it my fear talking here?
Acquired Brain Injury and Nutrition
Brain Injury may change the way you relate to food. For some survivors, memory problems may affect food
intake. Damage to the brain can cause an inability to feel full or hungry, causing you to eat too much or too
little without realizing it. You may have a changed or absent sense of taste or smell. This often happens in
the earlier stages of recovery and may disappear as time goes on. This could also be a side effect of
medication you are on. The simplest way to manage many nutritional concerns is to create a meal plan and
record what you are eating. This way, if you have problems remembering when you ate, or cannot tell when
you are full, you can refer to the record you are keeping.
Canada’s Food Guide to Healthy Eating
Canada‟s Food Guide to Healthy Eating provides basic information of good nutrition, encouraging you to
enjoy a variety of foods. Canada‟s Food Guide to Healthy Eating identifies the four food groups and
recommends the number of servings per day required by healthy Canadians. Factors such as age, weight,
gender, activity and medical concerns will influence how many servings are required from each of the four
groups. Serving sizes can be adjusted to meet individual needs.
Emphasize cereals, breads, other grain products, vegetables and fruit. Ensure that individual needs for
energy, protein, and other nutrients are met. A nutritional assessment and follow-up by a dietician may be
required. Your doctor can probably recommend a dietician for you to contact. When choosing foods, take
into account any problems you have with swallowing or food allergies. A speech-language pathologist can
assess and treat swallowing problems; a dietician can help with food allergies.
Choose low fat dairy products, lean meat, and food prepared with little or no fat. If you are overweight, you
may need to control portion sizes as well as fat content. If you are underweight or have increased energy
requirements, you may need to eat higher fat foods and maintain a healthy weight. You can also achieve
and maintain a healthy body weight by participating in regular physical activity. Keep in mind that you may
be restricted in what you can do because of poor balance, poor vision, fatigue, or other complications
resulting from your brain injury. Keep looking for something that you are physically able to do, that you
enjoy, and that contributes to your therapy. Physical, recreational, or occupational therapists may provide
advice on the kinds of activities most suitable for you.
Limiting salt may help control high blood pressure and fluid retention if you have these concerns. Caffeine,
which is found in coffee, tea, some colas and chocolate, is a stimulant. Your ability to tolerate caffeine may
be very limited, and it may be best to avoid all caffeine, especially in the initial stages of recovery. Even if
the stimulating effect of caffeine is not a problem, Health Canada suggests having no more than four cups of
brewed coffee (or the caffeine equivalent in other foods and beverages) per day.
Eating well is an important part of recovering from illness and
maintaining good health. Follow Canada‟s Food Guide. If
you are concerned about your nutritional needs, ask your
doctor for a referral to an outpatient dietician.
[Source: Alberta Brain Injury Network: Survival Guide (2003)]
Children with Acquired Brain Injury
What to Expect from Your Child:
The following changes may affect your child‟s behaviour. This is not
an exhaustive list. Your child may experience many of these
changes or none at all:
 Fatigue
 Irritability, angry outbursts, and impulsiveness
 Passive behaviour
 Depression
 Forgetfulness
 Poor organizational skills
 Difficulty following directions
 Immature behaviour
 Inappropriate sexual behaviour
Fatigue
Fatigue is the most common problem children experience after sustaining a brain injury. Your child may
also suffer from vision problems, light sensitivity, or headaches that they did not have before the injury. To
prevent fatigue, you may need to give your child rest periods in a quiet place. Remember, it is important
that your child participate in school and other activities only when they have the mental and physical energy
to do so.
Irritability and Angry Outbursts
Irritability and angry outbursts are also common among children learning how to deal with the stimulation of
school, day care and/or playgrounds. Look at what precedes the behaviour. Do you notice a pattern? Is
there something you can change, such as introducing a rest period, that will help prevent or reduce the
frequency of the behaviour?
Immature or Inappropriate Behaviour
Immature behaviours include interrupting frequently, making tactless remarks, displaying messy eating
habits, or repeating words over and over. Inappropriate behaviours may also include making inappropriate
sexual comments, or gestures or actions that are out of context.
Grief, Guilt & Depression
Many parents of young brain injury survivors experience grief, guilt, and/or depression over what has been
lost. These are normal emotional responses. You need to grieve your losses and so may your child. You
may feel guilt over the circumstances of the injury even if it could not reasonably have been prevented.
Guilt is often expressed as anger and blame directed at others.
Depression is another common response. If you or your child are finding it difficult to move through the
emotions, contact your local school board, Regional Health Authority, local Child and Family Service
Authority or local Brain Injury Association and ask about counselling.
FVBIA has a booklet for children ages 5 to 10, “The Road Ahead: Next Exit: Hope”
It is a helpful look at how brain injury affects the whole family.
Return to School after Acquired Brain Injury
In the case of a child with a brain injury, both the family and the child may be eager for a return to school.
There are resources available to assist with this transition:

In the education system, most school
boards provide special needs services, so
your child does not necessarily have to
attend a specific school. The manner in
which schools provide services, however,
may vary.

Your local brain injury association can be
of assistance when your child returns to
school. It can provide education on brain
injury to your school, consult with
teachers, and provide a link to the
hospital and other medical services.

Health Professionals.
The health
professionals most likely to be involved
with your child‟s return to school are
psychologists,
speech
/
language
pathologists, and occupational therapists.
Brain injury associations, health professionals,
and the education system should work as a team
with the family and child. Because school is a
highly stimulating environment, it will be difficult
at first for your child to deal with all the noise and
activity. This is why many children return to
school gradually.
Your child may start by
attending a few hours, two or three days a week,
without educational demands. As they gain
energy, attendance is gradually increased and a
curriculum started. Eventually, your child may be
able to attend full days, five days a week.
In rural areas, transportation limitations may mean that your child is at school for longer periods than
appropriate. If fatigue in school is a problem, ask if your child can have a rest period.
What to Ask When Interviewing a Lawyer
1. How many brain injury cases has the lawyer handled?
2. If a child is involved, how many cases involving children from infants up to 18?
 A lawyer that does not have a lot of experience working with children is not appropriate if you
are dealing with an injured child.
3. Ask for the name of at least three families for you to talk to.
4. Many of the very good lawyers have extremely competent and experienced legal assistants and you
should ask at the beginning, if that particular lawyer uses legal assistants at all times and ask to
meet them as well.
5. Ask for the court registry number of any cases in which that lawyer may have been involved, where
there has been a judgement.
6. How does that lawyer work with ICBC?
7. Does that lawyer ever act as a defence lawyer for ICBC?
8. What are the names of the experts usually used by the lawyer for neuropsychology, neurology and
vocational?
9. What is the fee structure? (a) What is the percentage charged on a contingency basis? (b) What is
that lawyer‟s practice when it comes to disbursements? (Disbursements are those expenses that
have to be incurred in a lawsuit such as: investigation reports, specialists to do independent medical
examinations, neuropsychologists, different doctors and so on. Each of these reports will cost many
thousands of dollars.) (c) Does the lawyer charge interest if he advances the disbursements? (d)
Does the lawyer expect the family to cover the cost of the disbursements as incurred?
10. Be well organized when you go to meet a lawyer and bring this sheet with you, and paper to record
the responses. There is absolutely no harm in making sure that the lawyer knows that you are
checking out other lawyers as well.
11. Meet with at least three different lawyers before deciding, more if you are not happy with the first
three that you meet.
12. When interviewing the lawyer, remember that this is likely to be a long-term relationship until the
case settles or goes to court, so you must be very comfortable with that lawyer. Again, a reminder,
interview at least three different lawyers.
APPENDIX A
This page can be used to keep track of important numbers and resources. This will help you keep
names and numbers in one place for easy access.
Name
Position (What are they helping Organization
you with?)
Phone/Fax/Email
APPENDIX B
Meetings/Appointments/Tests:
Date:
Time:
___________
With whom:
___________
Where:
___________
What do I need to bring or do before the appointment? For example, how will I get there?
What happened/results:
What I need to do next:
Comments/Thoughts:
Practical Applications
Behaviour Modification
Behaviour Modification is a technique used to take unwanted behaviours and change them into positive
appropriate behaviours using reinforcements. Determine what the behaviour is that needs to be changed
and why. Determine what the trigger is (antecedent), determine the behaviour, and figure out the
consequences. Are they reinforcing the behaviour and in what way? Are there more desirable behaviours?
Can they be reinforced in similar ways?
Behavioural/Psychosocial Changes
Lack of insight
Suggestions
Doesn‟t understand others‟ reactions
to behaviour
Increase social awareness
Interrupts others
Use role play/modeling
May become involved in altercations
Avoid confrontation
Resents supervision
Stress need for safety
Doesn‟t recognize physical and
cognitive limitations
Adjust activities to limitations
Build on success rather than failure
Irritability/frustration tolerance
Suggestions
Less tolerant of noise/distractions
Help the person pinpoint problems and find ways to cope
Gets frustrated with help
Redirect away from source of frustration and provide alternatives
Refuses to participate in group
activities
Be proactive (identify triggers and avoid if possible)
Attempt to provide feedback when they are in a better mood
Stress reduction techniques
Learn to detect behaviours leading up to outbursts
Allow time to get away from situation
Provide empathy
Behavioural/Psychosocial Changes Cont’d
Aggression
Suggestions
Hitting etc…
Develop a cueing system
Swearing, foul language
Assertiveness/anger management training
Provide professional counselling
Staff educated in non-violent crisis intervention training
Recognize and reinforce positive coping and communication skills
Allow them to leave and regroup. Provide feedback at a safer time
Non-compliance
Suggestions
Does not comply with rules and
expectations
Write down instructions so they can work independently
Encourage peers to get involved
Give feedback
Don‟t argue, provide clues from the environment
Provide time for “fun” or interesting activities
Social Immaturity
Suggestions
Makes inappropriate comments
Provide immediate feedback and offer alternatives
Laughs out loud during serious
discussions
Role plays and “what if…” scenarios
Tells anyone who will listen about
their injury
Acts as if things revolve around
them
Apathy
Develop non-verbal cueing system
May appear “lazy”, lethargic,
unmotivated
Assist them with keeping a list of activities to be completed daily
May not think to plan and initiate
activities
Give a choice between doing one thing or another
Appears to forget to complete
tasks
Help them explore what they want, set easy goals for them to achieve
Videotape behaviour and review together
Suggestions
Cognitive Changes
Attention
Suggestions
Difficulties with focusing,
attention, filtering out distractions
Use short concise instructions
Difficulty maintaining attention,
shifting from topic to topic
Use clearly defined objectives
Difficulty dividing attention
between activities and tasks
Use novel, unusual, relevant and stimulating activities
May appear lost, may wander
May need one to one instructions
Chores/activities incomplete
Minimize distractions
Memory
Suggestions
Appears forgetful
Use visual reminders such as schedules, check lists, calendars, post-it
notes etc and teach/remind them to use them
May be unable to remember
names, faces or
tasks/appointments
Use alarms/cues to signal transitions
Can‟t learn new information
Traditional memory strategies (rehearsal, mnemonics) may not work
Has little recall of details when
reading
May appear disoriented
Reasoning & Abstract Thinking
Suggestions
Difficulty grasping abstract
language
Explain things in concrete terms
Misses sarcastic humour or jokes
Speak plainly
Responses may be lengthy and
provide very little information
Be aware of deficits and adjust your expectations for spontaneous
conversations
Cognitive Changes Cont’d
Problem Solving
Suggestions
Unable to “think” their way
through processes
Difficulty perceiving exact nature
of the problem
Difficulty identifying more than
one solution and comparing them
Post rules where everyone can see them.
May have difficulty making
choices
Judgment
Encourage peers to get involved
Is easily persuaded by others
Use signals to cue the person to their behaviour
Is careless about safety
Help them create boundaries for themselves
Speaking and Writing
Work with them to recognize unsafe relationships using role play,
feedback, etc
Suggestions
Can‟t find the words to express
themselves
Provide structure by asking specific questions
Give feedback
Provide supervision and monitoring
Suggestions
Give immediate feedback
Does not provide much detail
May speak too quickly or too
slowly
Encourage word retrieval through descriptions
May make up stories and
information to fill in gaps
Be patient
Uses cliché phrases or uses
same sentence structure over
and over
Encourage them to know their limitations so they can explain it to others
Cognitive Changes Cont’d
Listening Comprehension
Suggestions
Misunderstands instructions and
comments
Use concrete language
Needs information repeated
Use clear, short explanations accompanied by written directions
Can‟t follow conversations
Use simple vocabulary and short sentences
Easily confused by too much
information
Summarize and repeat information
Takes everything literally
Use visual aids to reinforce verbal information
Organizational Ability
Suggestions
Difficulty organizing events into
appropriate sequences
Limit number of steps in a task
Gets lost in daily routine
Give cues
Disorganized or incomplete tasks
Provide written schedule of routine, maps, etc
Sequence instructions
Check off steps as completed
Use/develop compensatory tools
Information Processing
Suggestions
Thinks and answers more slowly
Present information in small chunks
Can‟t complete task within
allotted time
Allow extra time for them to answer
Be patient
Tangential Communication
Suggestions
Rambles, doesn‟t acknowledge
listener‟s interest or attention
Interrupt rambling speech
May monopolize conversation
Focus attention on key issues
Physical Changes
Fatigue
Suggestions
Looks pale & tired
Review medical information
Tunes out and doesn‟t pay
attention
Check on sleeping patterns
Cognitive ability deteriorates at
the end of the day
Avoid over stimulation
Disinterest in normally appealing
activities
Provide frequent rests
Unable to complete tasks
Schedule most demanding activities in peak performance times (i.e.,
late mornings)
Headaches
Closely monitor time of day that fatigue sets in, medication and fatigue
factors. See if medication schedule can be adjusted.
Suggestions
Complains of pain
Allow them to leave activity to lie down
Unable to pay attention or
concentrate
Monitor the activity and time of day to identify patterns to the headaches
May be soft tissue related
Talk to Physician re: medications, massage, physiotherapy or other
alternatives.
Seizures
Suggestions
Seizures range from petit mal to
grand mal
Familiarize yourself with warning signs (aura)
Identify possible side effects of medication
Check with the physician
Educate all staff re: seizure protocol
1.Keep Calm.
2.Protect from further injury.
3.Do not restrain the person
4.Do not insert anything in the mouth.
5.After the seizure subsides, roll the person on his side.
6.If a seizure lasts longer than 5minutes, or repeats without full
recovery,
SEEK MEDICAL ASSISTANCE IMMEDIATELY.
7.Talk gently to the person. Let him rest.
Physical Changes Cont’d
Muscle Paralysis and
Weakness
Suggestions
Unable to write neatly
Provide adaptive equipment (computer, palm pilots, tape recorder)
Clumsy
Consult with occupational therapist for seating, safety issues around
the home etc…
May tire easily
See if they will use a backpack
Can‟t carry items for any distance
Balance and Coordination
Suggestions
Appears clumsy, unstable and
prone to accidents
Review medical history and medications
Unsafe in crowded areas
Consult with occupational therapist re: safety in the home such as
railings, supports for bathtub/shower etc…
Fine Motor Coordination
Suggestions
Prints and writes slowly/messily
Consider a computer or palm pilot
Hand tremors during activities
Consult with occupational therapist
Can‟t pick up or manipulate small
objects
Use hand grips for pens/pencils
Oral-Motor Coordination
Suggestions
May drool or have difficulty
swallowing
Allow adequate time for them to express themselves
Can‟t articulate words clearly
Sit face to face
Slow rate of speech
Keep working with them to ensure that you understand what they are
trying to communicate
Breathy, hoarse or nasal voice
quality
Consult with speech and language therapist
Physical Changes Cont’d
Visual Deficits
Suggestions
Difficulty seeing objects in part of
their visual field
Review medical information
Difficulty perceiving spatial
orientation of objects
Consult with physician, ophthalmologist, neuro-opthamologist,
optometrist, occupational therapist or CNIB.
Difficulty picking out the important
object from the background
Provide large print books or books on tape
Difficulty scanning and reading
material
Place materials in best visual field
Difficulty recognizing objects if they
pass by too quickly
Limit the amount of visual information on a page
May be overwhelmed in visually
stimulating setting
Assess and monitor safety in the community
Check with CNIB for accommodations for visual impairments and
services
Sense of Touch
Suggestions
Reduced ability to sense touch or
temperature
Provide reminders or cues to check temperature if needed
Hypersensitive to sense, touch or
temperature
Monitor closely for injuries
May require a gradual desensitization program for hypersensitivity
Hearing
Suggestions
May have partial or full hearing loss
in one or both ears
Install a flashing light system for smoke detectors, phone etc.
May seem to not be paying attention
or non-responsive
Consult with resources for people with hearing impairments for
accommodations/adaptations
Misses direction or information
Assess and monitor safety in the community
Emotional Changes
Emotional
Suggestions
Difficulty controlling emotions
Recognise that even though the response is overtly dramatic, the
underlying emotion may not be at all that strong.
Crying too much or laughing
inappropriately
Ignore the behaviour when it occurs
Model calm behaviour yourself
Depression
Suggestions
Lack of interest in life, excessive
sleeping,
Sexual withdrawal
Although people with acquired brain injuries have difficulty
benefiting from traditional forms of counselling, it is definitely worth
seeking help to deal with depression especially if suicidal thoughts
are expressed
Therapy for depression needs to be concrete and task oriented and
requires repetition
Use diversionary tactics to get their minds off depressive thoughts
Excessive TV watching
Structure their schedules
Flatness of affect
Familiarize yourself with other indications of their emotions rather
than relying just on facial expressions.
Lack of motivation

Information Package - Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association

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