Advancing inclusive development through community-based rehabilitation: a systematic literature review.

Abstract

Background/purpose: Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) has become a widely adopted strategy for promoting the participation, empowerment, and well-being of people with disabilities, particularly in low- and middle-income contexts. Despite its global implementation, empirical evidence on the effectiveness of CBR interventions remains dispersed across disciplines. This study synthesises existing empirical research to examine the outcomes of CBR programmes and empowerment-oriented interventions for persons with disabilities.

Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted in accordance with established review procedures and PRISMA reporting guidelines. Peer-reviewed studies were identified through database searches using predefined keywords related to disability, community-based rehabilitation, and empowerment. Studies were included if they reported empirical findings on CBR outcomes among persons with disabilities. Data from eligible studies were extracted and analysed to compare study characteristics, research designs, analytical approaches, and reported outcomes.

Results: Nine empirical studies met the inclusion criteria. The studies employed diverse methodological approaches, including cross-sectional surveys, mixed-method designs, qualitative investigations, and quasi-experimental analyses with comparison groups. Across the studies, participation in CBR programmes was consistently associated with improvements in social inclusion, empowerment, participation, and access to services. Quasi-experimental studies provided stronger evidence of programme effectiveness, while qualitative and mixed-method studies highlighted experiential dimensions of empowerment and community engagement.

Conclusion: The evidence indicates that CBR programmes contribute to improved participation and empowerment among persons with disabilities. Strengthening evaluation designs and expanding outcome measurement across all domains of the CBR matrix will enhance future research and support the development of inclusive community rehabilitation strategies.