WARREN-WASHINGTON ARC

by Pam Walker
This Arc operates in Warren and Washington counties of New York, a both urban and rural area. Through use of the Medicaid waiver, this agency has begun developing some individualized supports for people with severe disabilities.

Gail

Gail lives at home with her family, with the assistance of them, as well as support workers who come in 32 hours per week. This support is funded through the Medicaid waiver, which more than doubles the hours of in-home support the family was receiving prior to this. The family and Gail determine how many hours of support they need, and on what schedule. In her early 20s, it was becoming difficult for Gail's mother to lift her and provide personal care. Gail's mother said it had also become difficult for her or other family members to spend the time doing all the community things that Gail is now interested in doing. So, support staff come and assist Gail with personal care routines, as well as do things at home and in the community with her that she enjoys.

On behalf of the family, the agency has applied for Medicaid waiver funds to purchase a van, hoyer lift, and some other adaptive equipment. Since Gail was young, her family has always talked to her about the idea of some day moving into a group home. Now that there are other options available, they have started thinking about someone she might like to share an apartment with.

Daniel

Daniel, who is 16 years old and has cerebral palsy, recently moved back into his family's home. He had moved into an ICF in August 1990 because his family was unable to care for him on their own. He needs physical assistance for things such as eating, dressing, and bathing. Daniel and his family now receive Medicaid waiver services, including: residential habilitation, which consists of a personal care aide for 60 hours per week; case management; home modifications; and adaptive technology, including a computer and conversion of the family van.

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