Living With A Developmental Disability
What is a Developmental Disability?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately two out of every 100 Americans have a developmental disability. A developmental disability, as defined by the federal government, is a severe, chronic condition of a person that:
- Is attributable to a mental or physical impairment or combination of mental and physical impairments
- Is manifested before the individual attains age 22
- Is likely to continue indefinitely
- Results in substantial functional limitations in three or more of the following areas of major life activity—
- Self care
- Receptive and expressive language
- Learning
- Mobility
- Self-direction
- Capacity for independent living
- Economic self-sufficiency
“I was diagnosed with ALS three years ago. I live with my friend and I have 2 children who are grown and live on their own. I have a ON CALL CARE SERVICES Caregiver who sees me few hours each day. Audrey is wonderful! She anticipates what I need. For example, she just knows to make sure I have ice water. She always spots me in the shower and when I get out, she combs my hair without me having to ask. Just having someone hold my hand and listen is very important.”
Disability
Cindy, Jackson County, Kansas City, MO
ON CALL CARE SERVICES refers Caregivers to adults living with a disability who provide personal care, homemaking and companionship services for people who:
- Need help with daily living tasks
- Are alone or may be at risk
- Have families living far away
- Who need respite care
ON CALL CARE SERVICES Caregivers have a passion for caring, plus the skills and commitment to help Clients remain independent and at home.
Many have experience with cancer, AIDS, Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, A.L.S. and more.
Living Life with Developmental Disabilities
Most people may struggle with understanding how adults with developmental disabilities prefer to live their lives.
“We all want the same basic things out of life: a decent and comfortable place to call ‘home’, something meaningful to do during the day, some close friends with whom to share the good times and from whom we receive support in difficult times, and the opportunity to make our own decisions about things that will affect our personal lives.”
The Impact of Aging on Adults with Developmental Disabilities
Thanks to advancements in medical care, adults with disabilities now have much longer life expectancies. Unfortunately, that often comes with advancing health concerns like high blood pressure, diabetes, or early dementia or Alzheimer’s. As new needs emerge,On Call Care Services helps each person meet the cognitive and physical challenges of aging by making adaptations in his/her environment and lifestyle.
Caring for Adults with Developmental Disabilities
If you are caring for a loved one with developmental disabilities, support is here for you. And On Call Care Services can help.