Affiliations: Research and Training Center on Independent Living at
the University of Kansas, 4089 Dole Center, Lawrence, KS 66045-2093, USA. Tel.:
+1 785 864 0578; Fax: +1 785 864 5063; E-mail: [email protected] | Department of Health Policy and Management, Kansas
University Medical Center, Lawrence, KS, USA
Note: [] Corresponding author
Abstract: Objectives: Understand the obstacles and benefits of greater
integration of people with emerging disabilities into the independent living
movement through two primary research questions: how do Centers for Independent
Living (CILs) provide services to people with emerging disabilities, and, what
more can be done with them by these centers? Study Design: Phone interviews and focus groups were used to
interview 102 people with disabilities recruited through CILs in Kansas. Data
for this study were analyzed by using constant comparative analysis. Results: Five major themes on possible roles for CILs emerged:
Outreach, disability awareness, health referral, employment assistance, and
improved help at home. Conclusions: An expanded role of Centers for Independent Living can
develop that recognizes, accepts and supports emerging disability groups.
