Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility
top of page
Search

Idaho’s Long-Term Care System Needs Change to Support People with Disabilities

jgrushdale

The U.S. Department of Justice recently looked into Idaho’s long-term care system for people with physical disabilities and found that the state is not following the law. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), people with disabilities should have the choice to live in their own homes or communities, not just in nursing homes. But the investigation found that many Idahoans are being forced into nursing homes when they would rather live independently with the right support.

 

This is important because people with disabilities often want to live in their own homes, stay close to family, and be part of their local community. They don’t want to be isolated in nursing homes. In fact, many nursing home residents in Idaho—more than 65%—have said they would rather live in the community if they had the support they need. Sadly, only a small number of people are able to get help to move back into their homes.

 

Home and community-based services (HCBS) are an example of a state program that can help. These services are more affordable for the state and offer people the freedom to live independently. HCBS help people with disabilities get the care they need at home, like help with daily tasks or medical care, so they don’t have to move into a nursing home. These services also allow people to stay close to their families, which is important for keeping families and communities strong.

 

Sadly, Idaho spends much more money on nursing home care than on community services. In 2022, Idaho spent about $85,000 for each person in a nursing home, but only about $13,000 for people getting care at home. This is not a smart way to spend money. By investing more in HCBS, the state can save money, support people’s independence, and keep families together.

 

The Department of Justice has urged Idaho to make changes so that people with disabilities have a real choice to live in their homes and communities. This would follow the law and allow more people to live freely and independently, where they belong.

 

We will know more in the coming months about what this means for Idaho and the people who depend on HCBS to live independent and free lives. Stay tuned for more information, and if you are someone who has barriers to living independently in your community, please reach out to us. There will opportunities to advocate for change in Idaho that will ensure that our civil rights are protected, and our ability to live the life of our choosing is realized for everyone. There is much work yet to be done.



14 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page