New resource guide to help older adults caring for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Approximately one million individuals aged 60 or older in the U.S. are providing care for an adult with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DDs), such as autism, cerebral palsy, or Down syndrome. As individuals with I/DDs experience longer life expectancy, their parents or other family members are also more likely to continue providing care later in life.

The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) has a new resource, Future Planning Guidebook For Older Caregivers of Adults with I/DD, which is available online at https://aging.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2023/02/future-planning-guidebook-for-idd.pdf. It connects older adult caregivers with information and resources to begin the process of long-term planning. This includes financial and legal tools as well as supportive programs and services.

NYSOFA Director Greg Olsen said, “If you are an older adult caring for an individual with intellectual or developmental disabilities, this guidebook is here to help, connecting you with vital information and resources. In many cases, these services and options are available to people of all ages who are in a caregiver role. Please share this important resource today with anyone you know who could benefit.”

The resource guide was developed with support from the U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the New York State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council (DDPC).

DDPC Executive Director Vicky Hiffa said, “People with developmental disabilities are living longer and fuller lives with many wanting to remain in their current homes as they grow older. The DDPC was pleased to partner with NYSOFA to help ensure that caregivers and people with developmental disabilities have access to reliable resources as they age. This guidebook serves as a tool to help caregivers support aging adults with developmental disabilities to live with dignity and in a setting of their choosing.”

The Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL) also provides an easy way to get connected to needed services.. The line is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Individuals can call, text or videophone to 888-677-1199.
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