An Acquired Brain Injury is a temporary or permanent damage to the brain that occurs after birth. It is not the same as a brain injury you are born with or a health condition such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Common causes include injury from an accident, assault, disease, stroke, brain tumour, and drug or alcohol abuse. It can cause physical disability as well as problems with thinking, memory, attention, emotions, and relationships.
The Brain Injury Program helps individuals with an Acquired Brain Injury live in the community. VIHA and community agencies work together to arrange support services.
Services may include:
- Long Term Residential Support, such as family care homes, contracted private group living facilities or MacDonald House group home.
- Long Term Community Rehabilitation, such as tenant support, day programs or community supports/life skills.
- Short Term Rehabilitation and Stabilization, such as trauma recovery counselling, caregiver support etc.
- Education and In-services, which provide an overview and understanding of Brain Injury
- Other Related Programs and Services
- Drop-In Programs and Support Groups are provided through Brain Injury Societies in various locations throughout VIHA
- Access and referral to other services, such as Neuro-Psychology assessment and counselling, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, and Speech Therapy may be facilitated by Brain Injury Program staff
If you are interested in learning more about this program, ask your Case Manager or any other member of your care team about applying to this program.
Who is eligible?
Eligible clients must:
- Be 19 years of age and older
- Have sustained an Acquired Brain Injury after birth
- Consent to receiving services
- Live within the VIHA region.
How can I get this service?
The following people can refer to the program:
- physician
- health care provider
- family member
- friend
- the person with the Acquired Brain Injury.
Please contact the program at 250.370.8455 for more information.
You may also download the following application form and mail or fax it to our office at 250.370.8697. An intake worker will contact you for more information about the referral and to determine eligibility for services.
Brain Injury Program Application for Service (pdf)
For more information, please read about accessing services or contact a VIHA Home Health Office near you.