AgrAbility

Agriculture has long been recognized as one of the most hazardous occupations. Illinois has over 500,000 people directly and indirectly involved in the production of agriculture.  The combination of workplace hazards, a "graying" population, and limited access to health information makes Illinois' agriculture sector more susceptible to health problems and work-related injuries.    Every year in Illinois, over 200 farmers in this group become permanently disabled from injury, arthritis, disabilities, stroke, vision or hearing loss, respiratory ailments or chemical exposure. Easter Seals Central Illinois and the University of Illinois Extension have received funding through the United States Department of Agriculture to establish AgrAbility Unlimited.  The organizations have combined their expertise in the areas of agriculture and disability to promote independence and productivity after a disabling illness or accidents.

AgrAbility Services:

Through AgrAbility Unlimited, farmers, their families and agriculture workers will continue to enjoy their way of life.  The program seeks ways to overcome disabilities through:

• A toll-free information and referral hotline.

• Networking with local agricultural and rehabilitation professionals.

• Community resource coordination.

• Equipment/Workplace modification and consultation.

• Job/Task restructuring.

• Alternative job development.

• Stress management counseling.

• One-on-one support network.

• Safety/secondary injury awareness.

AgrAbility Assists With:

• Comprehensive assistance to farmers, farm workers and their families who have any form of disability.

• Individualized services for farmers aimed to increase self-sufficiency and independence.