In residential care settings Caring for any individual presents many challenges. Patience can be one of them. Even with physical and mental disabilities, every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.

Caring for individuals with Developmental Disabilities can be incredibly challenging because of the person's disability and due to their different personality and communication challenges.

Caring for Developmentally Disabled People requires patience, love, and understanding. They may need help with essential activities like eating, bathing, or using the bathroom. It is not uncommon that they require 24-hour supervision. However, it's important to remember that every person deserves dignity and respect, whatever their abilities are. One must possess a particular set of skills to do this work effectively and safely; they need to keep an open mind and have flexibility in their schedule.

Many Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) offer support for caregivers of Developmentally Disabled people. There is staff on duty 24/hours to assist as needed in residential care settings. These places can be an excellent option for those who need more supervision and support than they receive in a home.

However, a residential care setting may not be the best fit for some people. Maybe they feel too isolated in such an environment or are uncomfortable with the staff. In these cases, it is essential to explore all available options and find what works best for both the caregiver and person with Developmental Disabilities. Community Integrative access to Developmental Disabilities (CIADD) is one such program that provides support to both the caregiver and person with Disabilities. They offer respite care, educational opportunities, and social activities in a community setting, such as day programs, educational institutions, and meaningful work.

Despite the challenges we face, the impact of our services for individuals with developmental challenges. We can immediately get a sense of gratitude and fulfillment when we advocate and provide each individual's services to achieve their goals and lead a fulfilling life.

People with Developmental Disabilities are still human beings; they have the right to dignity and respect regardless of their abilities. We need to keep an open mind and be flexible in our schedule if we want to succeed at this job. There is a great need for home and community-based services to serve individuals. We need local and public leadership to invest in these vital services that make a difference in the lives of Developmentally Disabled people and their families. We also need to remember that every person is different; what works for one might not work for another. Through dialogue and advocacy, we can better serve Developmentally Disabled people in our community.

- Developmental disability
- Residential care setting
- HCBS
- CIADD
- Dignity and respect
- Community services - Local leadership - Public investment - Advocacy

Reference: HCBS Waiver Primer Policy