Direct Support Workforce
Direct Support Workforce and People with Intellectual, Developmental and Other Disabilities
A study on Direct Support Workforce and People with Intellectual, Developmental and Other Disabilities:
“In the past 40 years the U.S. has experienced a dramatic shift away from large congregate care facilities to home and family-based services for people with intellectual, developmental, and other disabilities needing supports. As a result of decades of advocacy and self-advocacy, today people with disabilities have a legal right to be included in their communities. However, that right is bumping up against limitations in the systems of services and supports necessary to meet the needs of a growing population of individuals with disabilities.
In this Impact we examine some of the workforce problems in our long-term care system and their consequences for people with disabilities, the direct support workforce, families, provider agencies, and communities. We share personal stories of what is and isn’t working for those delivering and receiving supports. We look at creative, bold actions being taken around the country to address those problems. And we look at ways to be a collective force for change and ensure that quality supports are there for people with disabilities in all our communities.”