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Itis the duty ofthe social worker as a member ofthe rehabilitation team to make sure that
the disability grants are processed while the amputees are still prepared for discharge.
The social worker has to take part in the assessment ofthe environment so as to assess
the state ofhouses, yards and people inthe same dwelling. This will assist ifthere are any
alterations that require financial assistance, like application for a social relief grant and
other types of grants depending on the social standing of the amputees (Couper,
1999:209).
2.5 ANCILLARY FACfORS THAT AFFECf REHABILITATION FROM
THE HOSPITAL TO THE COMMUNITY
Leaving the hospital is a threatening time to the disabled person, who may feel he does
not have the capacity to deal with the move to the community. One ofthe most deceptive
aspects ofrehabilitation is the condition ofthe patient at the time ofdischarge. They fear
the loss ofprotection and reliable care, as has been done by.the hospital staff. It is also
easier to deny the severity ofthe handicapping condition in the hospital where mobility is
easier and with sophisticated equipment, such as electric wheelchairs, which mask the
patient's real level offunction. In addition, personal needs are provided for whereas in
the community the patient is not "unlike others". Disabled patients who are not
emotionally prepared to deal with separation from the hospital may put an obstacle in the
way ofdischarge andcommunity rehabilitation (Wright, 1992:361).
2.5.1 CULTIJRE
Cultural attitudes and values acquired from childhood are influencing factors in the
process and outcome of rehabilitation. Cultural education within the family affects
matters such as how pain is perceived and expressed, what is considered physically
attractive, what aspects ofthe body are most prized and whether this will represent the
greatest loss, and soforth. Within each culture there maybe considerable variations in the
intensity of feeling towards disabled or specific handicaps. Cultural education may not
prepare disabled individnals for a new life ofleisure time. Cultural role expectations for
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