The Brain Injury Association of Durham Region provides a variety of supports for people of Durham Region who have experienced brain injuries.
Some of the supports we provide in include:
Application For Service
BIAD offers non-medical Brain Injury community support services. An application can be made by the individual (Self-referral) or Professionals (primary health care/community partners) by completing an Application for Services form. To access this application please click this link https://biad.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2023.03.22-BIAD-Applicaton-for-Service.pdf
BIAD follows the PHIPA guidelines and accepts applications via fax, mail, or in-person. To maintain confidentiality, please refrain from sending the application form via email. If you require a paper copy of the form please contact us at intake@ceabi.ca or call us at 905-723-2732
Adult Day Program
This program offers cognitive based programming along with social and recreational opportunities for individuals with Acquired Brain Injury to socialize and learn new skills. The program is constantly changing based on participant input. Below are the different options that the Adult Day Program provides.
Virtual Programs
We offer a variety of virtual programs that include skill based and recreation programs. There is no registration for this program, participants of the day program are welcome to join any program that is running from Monday – Friday. Some of the programs include; Brain Fitness, Memory Group, Exercise Group, Open Chat, Games and Social, Seated Yoga, Communication Group and more.
In-Person Cohort
We provide skill based and recreation activities such as Brain Fitness, Memory Group, Discussion Group, Games group and more. We do require people to register for a specific date and time. We have two separate three hour time slots; 9am-12pm and 1pm-4pm, running Monday to Thursday. Coffee and Tea is served throughout the day and we also provide lunch for participants. We are not a locked facility and can not provide any personal care support while in attendance. If attending in person you will need to be independent or bring support with you.
In-Person Registered Programs
BIAD opened up to a registered program option in May of 2022. This program provides clients the opportunity to register to participate in a program of their choosing, including Drama Group, Stained Glass, Exercise Group, Art Group and more. We are not a locked facility and can not provide any personal care support while in attendance. If attending in person you will need to be independent or bring support with you.
You can register for programming weekly using by:
- Calling your worker
- Call the office at 905-723-2732
- Or by using our online form CLICK HERE
Community Support Program
The Community Support Program offers outreach services provided to support individuals who are affected by brain injury and who have the capability of living independently, or who are being supported by family / others in the community.
- After undergoing a comprehensive ABI Intake & Placement process, individuals with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) are paired with a dedicated Client Service Coordinator (CSC) who will assist them in setting priorities and developing an individualized service delivery plan. The plan will be regularly reassessed and adjusted as necessary.
The CSC will also offer supports in areas such as:
- Developing skills in planning, organizing, and completing important paperwork
- Assistance with accessing coordinated care and income support services like ODSP, CPP, CPP-D and OW
- Support in accessing healthcare services and following up with primary care practitioners and other healthcare providers
- Referring, linking and staying connected to community resources for further support
- Supporting food security for individuals in need through connection to local food banks
Housing Support Program
BIAD helps clients affected by brain injury to find appropriate housing solutions. This is done through the Housing Program.
This outreach service provides flexible and personalized support to individuals and families who are dealing with various housing challenges. The Housing Program assists clients in finding safe and affordable housing that meets their specific needs, whether they are leaving an unstable housing situation, preventing homelessness after leaving institutions, or currently homeless or couch surfing.
BIAD addresses specific areas such as;
- Providing budgeting assistance
- Advocating for individuals facing housing challenges
- Engaging in landlord canvassing
- Assisting individuals with CDCD and Housing Stability applications
- Mediating with landlords on behalf of tenants
- Supporting food security for individuals
- Assisting in finding suitable housing options
- Providing income support through ODSP and OW programs
- Engaging in active outreach to individuals in need
- Assisting individuals in connecting with addictions/harm reduction resources
- Supporting individuals in finding mental health/crisis resources
- Collaborating with community partners and housing services
- Using the HIFIS system to support individuals in securing housing options.
Peer Support
The Peer Support Program connects people with a Mentor who has lived experiences with an individual (Partner) who is also living with the effects of an acquired brain injury who requires the support whether they be a survivor or caregiver.
This program is available to survivors, family members and/or unpaid caregivers. Mentors and Partners are matched based on similar experiences, needs and personal interests.
Why Be a Partner?
As a Partner in the program, you have the opportunity to learn from someone ‘who has been there’ and can offer you guidance and support based on their own personal experiences living with ABI. Support is provided to you via telephone or internet, based on your preference. This allows you to participate in the program from the comfort of your own home.
”This program made me understand I am not alone.”~
Why Be a Mentor?
As a Mentor, you have the opportunity to help others by sharing your experiences and by providing support and information to your partner who has similar lived experience. If being a Mentor interests you, you will undergo comprehensive training in your own community prior to being matched with a Partner.
”I want to give back and help others who are trying to cope with their brain injury.” ~
The Peer Support Program is coordinated through the Ontario Brain Injury Association (OBIA), making it possible to be matched province wide.
For more information about becoming a mentor or partner, contact BIAD’s Peer Support Coordinator via phone 905-213-5586 or email peersupport@biad.ca
Supported Independent Living
The Supported independent living program by BIAD is specifically designed to cater to the needs of individuals who have suffered a brain injury and require additional support to live independently.
The program is tailored to meet each individual’s specific needs and includes a range of support activities that focus on enhancing their daily living skills.
Activities include:
- Assisting with grocery shopping
- Allows individuals to learn and practice skills such as budgeting, meal planning, and healthy eating.
- Helping with driver’s license reinstatement
- Enables individuals to regain their mobility and independence.
- Support in establishing daily routines
- Helps individuals to manage their personal obligations and daily tasks, thereby giving them independence.
- Setting new personal goals
- Provides individuals with a sense of purpose and direction.
- Appointment support
- Helps individuals develop a sense of autonomy, develop life skills, and become more self-sufficient.
- Reminders for events and tasks
- Helps individuals manage their schedule and stay organized.
Overall, BIAD’s Supported independent living program is a vital resource for those who have suffered a brain injury and require additional support to live an independent and fulfilling life.