There are many benefits offered to victims of Spinal Cord Injuries (“SCI”) designed to help support their physical, emotional, and financial well-being. These benefits cover a large range of needs including medical services, financial assistance, housing support, legal services, assistive technologies, and scholarships.
Medical and Rehabilitation services are offered to those suffering from spinal cord injuries. These benefits often include access to medical care, which includes things such as surgeries, physical therapy, and specialized treatments. Additionally, comprehensive rehabilitation programs focused on aiding recovery are offered to those with SCI’s. Rehabilitation programs include physical, occupational, and speech therapy and are designed to enhance recovery and readjustment.
Victims of spinal cord injuries also have access to various forms of financial assistance. Spinal cord injuries and the complications associated with SCI’s are often quite costly. This problem is compounded if an individuals with spinal cord injuries are immobilized, making it incredibly difficult for them to work and financially support themselves. A primary financial benefit offered to victims of SCI’s is Social Security Disability Insurance (“SSDI”). SSDI offers monthly benefits for individuals who have worked and paid into Social Security but are unable to work because of their injuries. Supplemental Security Income (“SSI”) is another form of financial assistance offered to those with SCI’s. Supplemental Security Income is offered to those with low income and limited resources, regardless of work history. Veterans Benefits are also offered to victims of SCI’s who served in the military in some capacity. Veterans receive specific benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (“VA”) that may include disability compensation, pensions, as well as specialized services.
SCI victims also have access to a wide variety of housing and accessibility support. Housing modifications resources include financial assistance or grants for the purpose of modifying homes to improve accessibility. These modifications include ramps, widened doorways, and adapted bathrooms. Additionally, accessible housing programs help support individuals find or modify housing that meets their accessibility needs.
Communal benefits and social support, such as support groups and counseling help support those living with spinal cord injuries. These benefits include peer support groups, mental health counseling, and various other community networks. Recreational programs such as adapted sports, activities, and social events are also provided. Assistive technologies are offered to assist with mobility and quality of life. Adaptive equipment such as access to wheelchairs, mobility aids, and other technologies improve independence and quality of life. Technology grants also provide financial support to acquire or upgrade assistive technologies.
Legal and advocacy services are also crucial resources offered to those living with complications of spinal cord injuries. Legal aid includes help navigating legal issues related to disability rights, discrimination, and accessing benefits. Additionally, advocacy organizations support and advocate for disability rights and provide additional resources and information. Victims of SCI’s also receive various educational grants and scholarships. Financial aid for education, vocational training, and support for adaptive technologies and accommodations are provided. Some of the largest and most beneficial resources offered are scholarships. One example of a scholarship afforded to those struggling with SCI’s is the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation Scholarship, which offers various scholarships for students with paralysis and various other spinal cord injuries. Other potential scholarships include The Schwab Foundation Scholarship, AHEAD Scholarship Program, and the Parker Lee Project Scholarship.
While these are all potential benefits and resources, each person’s eligibility for these benefits varies based on many factors such as severity of the injury, financial status, and other personal circumstances. Connecting with a local disability advocacy organization or social worker can help individuals navigate and apply for benefits effectively.