HEALTH SERVICES Making sure you have regular checkups and are receiving the appropriate medical treatment is very important. Some people with disabilities may be at increased risk for chronic physical, developmental, behavioral or emotional conditions, and may require extra health and related services. Access to a quality practitioner that provides the best
TRANSPORTATION Transportation is helpful in maintaining employment, education, healthcare and community life. Transportation services will allow you to live independently within the community. If you do not drive, there are generally two options: public transit and paratransit. Public transit includes fixed route public transportation by bus, subway and light rail. Paratransit includes
HOUSING A home of one’s own, either rented or owned, is the cornerstone of independence for any individual. Many people with disabilities face tremendous difficulties in getting and keeping adequate housing. They face obstacles like discrimination, inaccessible construction and unaffordable housing. There are many government supports for home ownership and rental housing
ADVOCACY Disability advocates provide assistance and support to ensure that: Your rights are upheld You are an active participate in the decision-making processes Your needs and views are presented to government, service providers and the broader community However, it is very important to advocate for yourself. Even though there are numerous experts
SUPPORT SERVICES As members of the community, you can access a range of general services including community health, sports and recreation, employment and maternal and child healthcare services. You can request disability supports if: You have an intellectual, physical, sensory or neurological disability or an acquired brain injury The disability impacts your
LEGAL RESOURCES There are a multitude of legal resources in each state, which sets its own guidelines. You should check with your state agencies for guidance. Legal Resources to Consider: Health Insurance Medicaid health benefits are available for individuals who qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Medicaid provides government-funded
FINANCIAL RESOURCES & BENEFITS Proper financial planning is very important – it is never too early to plan ahead! Creating a financial plan requires you, and your support system, to consider your vision for life when you get older. First, ask yourself these questions: What supports will need to be in place
PARENT SUPPORT SERVICES Parenting is the most challenging job that some adults undertake. With such high demands, it’s not uncommon to feel frustrated. Parents can lose control when they are feeling isolated, involved in difficult relationships, experiencing financial stress or lacking information on child development and child-rearing techniques. However, becoming an informed
ADULTHOOD (18+) Every adult faces difficulties in the transition to living independently. The key to living life with the most independence is developing positive relationships, valuable work habits and making good personal choices for healthy living. Even when things get difficult, remember that it’s your constitutional right to be fully included, and
POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION Attending a post-secondary institution – a four-year college or university, a community college or other post-secondary training program – can present new opportunities and challenges. Pursuing post-secondary education allows you to broaden your social horizons while preparing academically for meaningful employment. You have a large array of options when it
