When establishing a community or family setting where individuals with
traumatic brain injury can live, the setting must be sensitive to the
individual's specific needs, as well as basic human needs. All indivi
duals are in need of loving relationships, meaningful work activities,
and the ability to enjoy themselves. They also want access to communi
ty events, and to be a part of a respectful environment that stimulate
s growth. Often, return to the family has resulted in disruption, retu
rn to work has been the exception, and relationships are forever alter
ed. Reintegration must take place where needs can be met; where indivi
duals are not simply cared for, but where they enjoy the same opportun
ities as those who are not disabled. The authors of this article each
presented at The Second World Conference on Brain Injury, in Seville,
Spain. In this article, they look at the impediments to reintegration
and possibilities for creating a rehabilitation environment that value
s life and allows for reintegration into the community and a return to
work and family. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights re
served.