AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
2007 Survey and Questionnaire Summary
Between May and October 2007, a brief on-line survey and a more extensive Questionnaire were used to collect feedback on what gaps in services and supports are barriers to relocation.
254 people responded to the on-line survey and 56 individuals or groups responded to the Questionnaire. Below is a summary sorted by several themes that emerged from the results.
This information was used in the Collaborative Teams’ discussions to create the Demonstration Services proposed in Washington State’s Operational Protocol.
Roads to Community Living Demonstration Project SURVEY and QUESTIONNAIRE THEMES
Community Transition Services
- Intensive relocation support
- One on one assistance when needed
- Better communication between institutional staff and in-home care providers.
- Coordination with natural supports (community, family)
- Someone to help navigate the benefits systems so financial, medical and social services are in place when the person comes out.
- Peer assistance to hook up people with like needs
- Assess what the client is able to do before released
- Locating housing options
- Housing vouchers/subsidies
- Help make the transition gradual rather than sudden.
- Resources to assist with the physical relocation. (i.e. movers, packing supplies.)
- Assistance with 'little things' one takes for granted, such as negotiating a lease, finding and purchasing furniture
- Assistance with financial management
- Person centered transition planning
Specialized Care Needs
- Nurse delegation especially if insulin injection could be delegated
- Nursing services on an ongoing basis
- Access to affordable and accessible medical and dental care
- On-going support to maintain or improve health
- Longer in-home follow-up by medical and/or MH professionals
- Easier access to specialty providers: Physical, Occupational, and Speech therapy
- Cognitive counseling for clients with traumatic brain injuries
- Home health workers
- Meals on Wheels
- Access to alcohol/substance abuse counseling
- Mental health services that come to the client.
- Mental health counseling on as needed basis
Environmental Modifications/Equipment
- Access to transportation
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Individually tailored adaptive equipment
- Assistive technology
- Home inspections for safety issues
- Service animals
Family/Informal Support
- Assessing family/community support needs
- Providing families and informal supports with respite opportunities
- Greater access to caregiver support programs
- Respite services provided in a rapid and timely manner
- Peer and family support, advocacy, information and referral
Life Skills Training and Community Access
- Social skills training
- Independent living skills training
- Employment skills training
- Increased training for staff members in the AFH's,
- Specialized in home training for caregivers in how to handle difficult situations
- “Something to do during the day that makes it worth getting up in the morning”
- Symptom management, both behavioral and medication
- Vocational supports for sustainable employment
- Volunteer opportunities that match person's interest and abilities.
- Adult Day Health and Adult Day Services
- Community gathering place for activities and socializing
- Recreational options
