Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Day Program
Rehabilitative Services
The ABI Day Program offers outpatient therapy groups for people who have an acquired brain injury. The program is for people who want to learn more about their brain injury, take part in meaningful activities, explore their strengths, and learn skills and strategies to manage symptoms.
 

Locations

NeuroCommons
Unit 0290, Bedford Place Mall
1658 Bedford Highway
Bedford, NS B4A 2X9
Tel: 902-473-1229
Fax: 902-425-6574

How do I access the Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Day Program?

Referrals are accepted from physicians and any other health care provider.  The referral form can be completed and faxed to the Coordinator- ABI Ambulatory Care Teams at 902-425-6574.   An intake assessment will be completed to determine whether ABI Day Program is appropriate.
 
To attend the program you must be:

  • 18 years of age and older
  • Diagnosed with an acquired brain injury (e.g. traumatic brain injury, concussion, stroke, brain tumor, meningitis / encephalitis, lack of oxygen to the brain)
  • If diagnosis is a single concussion, you must be referred within 2 years of the date of injury
  • Able to participate in a group setting
  • Living within the province and have access to reliable transportation OR a device with reliable internet
  • Able to manage selfcare and medications during program times or have a caregiver to help
  • Medically stable and able to attend regular sessions

The Core Program runs for 12 -16 sessions, 2 times each week for 6 -8 weeks.
Each session is 1.5 hours – 2.25 hours.

ABI Series programs run for 8-16 sessions each, 1- 2 times each week for 6 weeks.
Each session is 90-120 minutes (1.5 - 2 hours).

How do I prepare for my first visit to the program?

Virtual Care (online)

  • Prior to the first session of the program, you will receive an email with a link and sign-in information for the program.

In-Person

  • Please bring any medications you are scheduled to take during the hours you will be at the program.  You or your caregiver are responsible for managing your own medications while attending.
  • Wear comfortable clothing. Some series (i.e., Leisure and Fatigue) may include physical activity.  Participants will be given advance notice if more specific clothing is needed for a particular session.   
  • We recommend wearing layers as the temperature in the building can vary.
  • We encourage participants to bring their own snacks or drinks to the program.

What will happen at the Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Day Program?

There are three parts of the ABI Day Program: Core Program, Series Programs and Social Work Services.

The Core Program is the introductory portion which will help you learn about common effects of brain injury and an introduction to strategies. The Core Program must be completed before you can participate in the Series Programs.  

The Series Programs are theme-based groups that focus on learning strategies to manage certain difficulties related to ABI.  

  • There is a 6 week Series Program available on each of the following topics:
  • Fatigue
  • Memory
  • Emotional Regulation
  • Relaxation
  • Connecting through Leisure
  • Volunteering
  • Physical Activity

There are limited individual Social Work services available to address issues related to your brain injury. ABI Social Work only accepts referrals from Nova Scotia Rehabilitation and Arthritis Centre (NSRAC) clinicians at this time.

Will there be any follow up?

Once you complete the ABI Day Program (including Core and any relevant Series) you will be discharged from the program.  Prior to your discharge you will meet with a clinician to determine whether you should be referred to other services.

Documents and forms

Learn more