"This is the first day of my new life," says Betty as the van rolls toward her new home. “I'm just really glad to get another chance. I want to be free again, have a job again, and learn to live on my own again.” Eight years in a nursing home was enough for Betty. In January 1999, she got an apartment of her own in the Supported Living program.
With her mother's death in 1985, she had no place to live and eventually was ordered by a doctor to enter a nursing home.
"I forgot everything I learned before, I did. Now I have to learn it all over again and I do want to be more independent. I want to work, and I want to learn to do things for myself."
Betty is brimming with motivation and enthusiasm. She's glad she'll be living close to her church, traveling to which has always entailed special arrangements. Now, she'll be able to attend more frequently.
As Betty arrived at her new home, she unloaded her things vigorously from the van, and didn't stop moving until her personal things were put away. "I like having my own room," she says. "This is where I need to be. This is what I need to do for myself. This is my new life."
Supported
Living
a personal choice
Choosing how to spend a Friday night, deciding what to wear to work in the morning, making a grocery list, and cleaning house are all a part of everyday life. While learning these skills may seem ordinary to most people, for some individuals with disabilities, it’s an achievement. We help people make choices, addressing needs unique to each person.
People with developmental disabilities want to be a part of the community just like everyone else. Persons who need protection and supervision get help establishing homes and finding work. With our support, people gain confidence by meeting goals for personal growth and more independence.
Some persons with developmental disabilities are unable to live alone and are at risk of placement in an institution. Medicaid Home and Community-Based Waiver federal funds enable the development of supported living arrangements for residents of Boone County who need help living on their own.