After an amputation from a car accident or other accident, adjusting to the injury’s challenges can be difficult. Fortunately, there are many resources available to amputees to help them adjust and live independently and productively.
Vocational Rehabilitation Resource for Amputees
One resource available to amputees is the Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation Services. This office is part of the state Bureau of Rehabilitation Services and helps individuals with disabilities prepare for employment. The office assigns clients an individual counselor, and together, they develop a plan to help the client meet employment goals. Services used to meet these goals can include vocational counseling, medical treatment, training, rehabilitation technology, supported employment and other necessary services.
Support Groups in the Indianapolis Area
Support groups are another popular program for amputees. These groups offer amputees a chance to interact with others who have firsthand experience dealing with amputation and its various challenges.
- Amputees in Action (Indianapolis): If you’re in the Indianapolis area, Amputees in Action meets once a month on the first Tuesday of each month at 6 PM in the Rehab Hospital of Indiana. The group meets in the Main Conference Room. Call 317-696-5248 for more information.
- Amputee Support Group (Kokomo, Ind.): North of Indianapolis in Kokomo, amputees can meet the first Thursday each month in the afternoon at 3:30 p.m. at St. Joseph Physical and Sports Therapy. The group provides assistive technology information to aid in rehabilitation. Call 765-236-8500 for more information.
- Madison County Amputee Support Group (Anderson, Ind.): Northeast of Indianapolis, amputees in the Anderson area can meet with the Madison County Amputee Support Group, which organizes meetings and speakers for amputees in the local area. Call 765-617-7410 for more information.
Also check out the Amputee Coalition support group map to find other support groups throughout the state.
Benefits of Amputee Programs
Support groups can help improve an amputee’s mood and outlook through social interaction, not to mention the relevant information that these groups provide. It provides an opportunity to exchange stories, tips, and information with other people sharing similar experiences. Some groups even organize social outings. Employment services also can help an amputee patient obtain and maintain employment, despite the disability.
What Expenses Might a Lawsuit Account For?
If another party is to blame for an accident that led to your amputation, you may pursue legal action against that party. The lawsuit may allow you to recover costs associated with the injury. These costs may include medical expenses, future medical costs, lost wages, and psychological and physical therapy. If you must pay for rehabilitation services or assistive devices, a lawsuit should take those expenses into account.
This is how working with a personal injury lawyer can help amputees whose injury is another party’s fault. Hensley Legal Group is committed to helping amputees recover fair compensation for their damages by assisting in legal matters related to their injury. Contact our office or fill out our contact form to set up a free consultation and learn more about the legal process.