Instructor Gönül Kil Tetik from the Department of Disability Care and Rehabilitation at the Vocational School of Health Services (VSHS) of Üsküdar University explained that the rehabilitation process is of critical importance for individuals with disabilities to participate fully in society and to lead an independent life.
The rehabilitation process varies according to individual needs
Instructor Gönül Kil Tetik stated that the rehabilitation process for individuals with disabilities varies depending on the type and severity of the disability, the individual’s age, general health status, and specific needs. She continued, “This process is carefully planned and implemented by experts with a multidisciplinary approach. In the initial step of the process, called the preliminary evaluation, the individual's condition is assessed in a multifaceted way. Within this scope, the medical condition (neurology, orthopedics, psychiatry), physical functions (muscle strength, balance, range of motion), psychological and cognitive capacity, social environment (family structure, living conditions), as well as educational and professional background are evaluated. The purpose of this detailed assessment is to identify the individual’s needs and potential and to create a personalized rehabilitation plan.”
The rehabilitation plan is carried out with the collaboration of specialists
Instructor Gönül Kil Tetik noted that the rehabilitation plan is carried out with the collaboration of many experts such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and special education teachers. She said: “The treatment plan encompasses a wide range of areas, from physical therapy and exercise programs to occupational therapy, psychosocial support, and family education. If necessary, the plan also includes speech and language therapy, orthotic/prosthetic use, and special education. This plan, which is implemented through daily, weekly, or monthly sessions according to the determined goals, is regularly monitored and dynamically updated in line with the individual's progress. The implementation of this comprehensive plan requires the collaboration of a competent, multidisciplinary team consisting of physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, special education teachers, and social workers. Dietitians may also be included in the process when necessary. The duration of rehabilitation is not standard; it can vary greatly from person to person, ranging from a few months to several years, and in some cases, it may continue for a lifetime.”
What are the differences between rehabilitation methods for physical and mental disabilities?
Instructor Gönül Kil Tetik also stated that rehabilitation methods applied for physical and mental disabilities differ according to the type and degree of disability and the individual's needs. She explained, “These differences manifest in both the targeted areas and the techniques used. While physical disabilities aim more at regaining bodily functions, in mental disabilities the goal is to support the individual's development in areas such as learning, communication, and participation in social life. Therefore, rehabilitation processes differ significantly in terms of tools, methods, and areas of expertise.”
Early diagnosis and timely therapy improve the child’s quality of life
Instructor Gönül Kil Tetik emphasized that early intervention significantly increases the success of both physical and mental rehabilitation in children and said, “Delays in intervention may limit the child’s potential. Therefore, especially in cases involving developmental disorders, sensory deficits, or motor problems, early diagnosis and timely therapy have a decisive impact on the child’s quality of life.”
Cooking is also taught to improve independent living skills
Focusing on efforts to improve the independent living skills of individuals with disabilities, Instructor Gönül Kil Tetik continued as follows:
“Numerous fundamental areas are addressed to enhance the independent living skills of individuals with disabilities. These efforts include gaining daily living skills such as personal care, cooking, and cleaning. At the same time, communication and social skills are supported so that individuals can express themselves, build social relationships, and adapt to society. Transportation skills such as using public transportation and moving safely are emphasized for freedom of movement; practical abilities like shopping, budgeting, and time management are also developed. The process is completed with support in areas such as vocational training, technology use, health monitoring, and emergency preparedness, aiming to empower the individual in every aspect.”
Seeking professional help is not a weakness
Instructor Gönül Kil Tetik stated that social prejudices encountered during the rehabilitation process are among the greatest barriers negatively affecting both psychological recovery and social reintegration, and said, “Unfortunately, individuals face false perceptions such as being seen as dysfunctional or dependent, being excluded out of fear in cases of mental disorders, and hopelessness regarding recovery. Furthermore, the belief that seeking professional help is a sign of weakness is still a common societal issue. All these prejudices damage the individual's self-confidence and reduce their quality of life.”
Raising public awareness is essential
Emphasizing that a holistic approach is adopted to combat these harmful perceptions, Instructor Gönül Kil Tetik concluded her remarks as follows:
“Education and awareness campaigns are organized to correctly inform the public. The stories of individuals who have successfully completed the rehabilitation process are highlighted as role models. Support groups and psychosocial rehabilitation programs are implemented to prevent individuals from feeling alone. A rights-based perspective that approaches disability not as a deficiency but as a matter of human rights is promoted. In addition, adjusting the language and content in the media is encouraged in order to prevent misrepresentations.”
Üsküdar News Agency (ÜNA)
