This is an interesting article inDisability Scoopwritten by Michelle Diament about how Social Security benefits won't increase next year. She explains that it's due to inflation. The maximum an individual can get will remain at $733 per month and for couples it's $1,100.

SSI Benefits To Remain Unchanged

By Michelle Diament

For only the third time in decades, individuals with disabilities who receive Social Security benefits will see no increase next year in their monthly payments.

The Social Security Administration said Thursday that there will be no automatic cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, for 2016. Thats because inflation is too low to warrant an automatic benefit hike, the agency said.

Since 1975, federal law has mandated that Social Security benefits adjust upward annually to account for increases in inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index. There have been only two other years 2010 and 2011 without a COLA.

Without an adjustment, the maximum federal Supplemental Security Income benefits for individuals will remain at $733 per month. For couples, that figure will continue to be $1,100 per month.

Many states supplement SSI benefits for their residents so actual payments may be higher.

Across the nation, over 59 million people receive Social Security benefits and 8 million rely on SSI.

Source: http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2015/10/15/ssi-benefits-unchanged/20876/

To play a key role in advancing self-determination for people with disabilities and older adults in Wisconsin. InControl collaborates to ensure that all individuals live a productive community life as valued citizens, we work to discover, share, and promote best practices and as advocates for sound programs and good public policy

Date:October 28, 2015
To: Wisconsin Dept. of Health Services
From: In Control Wisconsin Board of Directors
Subject: Comments on the new Long-Term Care Plan for Wisconsin

In Control Wisconsin was formed in 2009 to a) promote the nationally and internationally growing idea that people with disabilities and older adults should have more control over their lives and the long term care (LTC) services they receive, and b) improve the cost effectiveness of the LTC system by ensuring that people only receive the level of support they need. This trend has been called self-determination, self-direction, and selfdirected supports. In Control Wisconsin is the only organization in Wisconsin that is solely focused on promoting this philosophy and its best practices. Our work is based on these core beliefs:

• people are capable of taking responsibility for making thoughtful, cost-effective decisions about their lives and their services,

• people have a right to substantial control over how public dollars are spent on their behalf and they can exert that control without directly handling the funds themselves, and

• it should be possible to deliver quality services with limited red tape for the individual.

Many people with physical and/or developmental disabilities, and a growing number of older adults are expressing a strong preference for having some level of self-direction in their services (an estimated 25,000 people in IRIS and Family Care are currently electing to fully or partially self direct their services).This enthusiasm for self direction also came through loud and clear in the JFC hearings on the 2015-2017 state budget.

We believe that self-direction is the way of the future in long term care. It resonates with the desire of many people to not be passive recipients of the care someone else chooses for them, but rather to be in the drivers seat and be able to say what supports they want, when they want them, and to hire the agency or the people who will provide them. This is an effective way to ensure that people are actually getting the services they want and need, and to ensure that public dollars are not spent on unnecessary services or bureaucracy.

In developing the specifics of Wisconsins LTC Plan for the future, we believe there are several important elements which must be included in the Plan to ensure that there is a robust self directed supports option available to anyone who wants it, which not only preserves the essential features of IRIS but actually make improvements on it. These elements include:

1. Education and Information.All LTC-eligible people in WI must be objectively informed and educated about the self directed supports (SDS) option.

2. Full access to Self Directed Supports. All LTC-eligible people in WI must have the right to elect a fully or partially self directed supports option. No one should be excluded from SDS because of the nature or extent of their disability. Shared or supported decision-making (with family and/or friends) is a legitimate form of SDS, and some people will need training on shared/supported decision-making.

3. Participant decision-making. SDS participants get to set their own goals. People who elect to self direct their services believe that they are the experts on their own lives, and Wisconsins experience with the IRIS program has proven that to be true.

4. Participant Control. SDS participants must have full budget authority and employer authority.(Budget authority = decision-making authority over how the Medicaid funding in your individual budget is spent. Employer authority = decision-making authority re who provides your services and how the services are provided. You get to choose any provider agency, or directly recruit, hire, train, supervise, and fire the people who provide your services, including parents, spouses, and relatives.)

5. Reliable budget-setting. Individual budgets must be set fairly and objectively before the person-centered planning process begins, and must be based on the individuals long term care needs and desired outcomes. The Plan should include safeguards to ensure consistency and transparency of the budget-setting process.

6. Quality Support. SDS participants must have access to ongoing support for self direction. Peoples circumstances change and some people experience crises. For many people, SDS wont work without the support of a competent SDS consultant.

7. Self-direction of the Whole Person. In the context of the new Integrated Model, SDS must now also apply to the provision of acute and primary health care, and behavioral health. This fits with national trends toward more consumer-directed health care and the use of the recovery model in the behavioral health field. It is also important that SDS not become medicalized, e.g. prior authorization procedures for medical treatment should not be applied to long term services and supports in SDS.

8. Appropriate Cost Effectiveness approaches. Promote cost effectiveness in SDS in ways that fit the values of SDS. SDS is inherently cost effective, as evidenced by the fact that IRIS participants give back 17% of their individual budget allocations. But traditional cost containment methods used in managed care (e.g. across the board provider rate cuts) can undermine the concept of SDS. Experience has shown that the most impactful cost effectiveness strategies in SDS are local and individualized. It is also important that individuals are given enough flexibility to fully capitalize on all the unique, cost effective opportunities to utilize natural supports which are inherent in SDS.

9. Program integrity. Create mechanisms to ensure that services are actually resulting in the outcomes chosen by the person, and that comply with CMS rules. Also, utilize fraud prevention and detection mechanisms that do not add unnecessary bureaucracy to SDS.

10. Participant rights. Include adequately funded Ombudsman services in the Plan which are independent of ADRCs, IHAs, and provider agencies. Include safeguards to prevent unnecessary institution admissions, and incentivize a safe, timely return to the community. Allow individuals placed in institutions less than 90 days to stay enrolled in SDS.

Thank you for your consideration of our views.

Contact information for Lynn Breedlove, President, InControl Wisconsin: lynnbreedlove.wi@gmail.com 608-577-0468

Board of Directors
Officers:

Lynn Breedlove,
President

Kate Norby,
Vice President

Jenny Felty,
Secretary

Patti Becker,
Treasurer

Peter Tropman
Ruth Adix
Terry Lynch
Jim Canales
Dennis Harkins
Erik Scribner
Laura Hanson
Trista Brandt
Monica Bear

Self-Determination Network News:October2015

Connect|Share|Learn|http://sdnetworkwi.org/

Changes to Wisconsin Long-Term Care: Whats Next?

On October 12^th, InControl Wisconsin held a webinar withLynn Breedlove, Co-chair of the Wisconsin Long-Term Care Coalition, and Lisa Pugh, Public Policy Director of Disability Rights Wisconsin, about what's next for Long-Term Care in Wisconsin. Weve setup aResource pagein our Wisconsin Long-Term Care section where you can find links to the webinar (both the audio-recording and the Powerpoint) as well as multiple resources to help you understand what's happening. We encourage you to check these out and share your resources as well.

In addition, weve started adiscussionwhere you can ask questions and express your thoughts and concerns regarding Long-Term Care in Wisconsin. Join the conversation today!

Member Spotlight

The Self-Determination Network includes some very talented members and we want to help you to get to know each other a little better. Member Spotlight is a great way for us to get to know each other better.

For this month, we shine the Spotlight on Dennis Granzen. Having the unique perspective of advocating for people with disabilities, but then also needing supports himself, he understands the importance of self-determination and advocacy. Stop by this monthsMember Spotlightand get to know Dennis!

Who should we shine the Spotlight on next?

Take our One-Minute Poll

In our last one-minute poll, we asked what your favorite Halloween candy was. About 26% reported that they liked Reeses Peanut Butter Cups best. M&Ms came in a close second at about 23%, and Snickers and Butterfingers tied at about 13%. About 20% of people said they either liked a different kind of candy or didnt like candy.

As you know, InControl Wisconsin recently offered a webinar focusing on an update of the State budget and its impact on long-term care programs in Wisconsin. As we consider future webinars, wed like to know if there are other topics youre interested in. Take ourone-minute pollnow!

It Only Takes "Five"

Take five minutes to check out what's happening on the Self-Determination Network:

• Call for Proposals: Proposals are now being accepted for the Autism Society of Wisconsin 27^thAnnual Conference.
• Advocacy Continues: This is a great article about how people continue to voice their concerns about changes to long-term care.
• Power of Networking: This is a great blog about the power of networking for people with disabilities.
• Register Now: Registration is now open for the Across the Lifespan Conference.
• Emergency Preparedness: This is a terrific article about emergency preparation for people with disabilities.
• Disability and Arts: Read about this great Wisconsin organization that provides arts programming for people with disabilities.
• City Ranking: This is an interesting article about a ranking for the best and worst cities for people with disabilities.
• Caregiver Wage Protections: This is a great article about caregiver wage protections finally took effect after many delays.
• Call for Exhibitors: The Across the Lifespan Conference is still looking for exhibitors. Exhibitor registration deadline is November 30^th.
• Post news or start a discussion: It's easy to do and a great way to share information and network with others!

Stacys Journal

This month Stacy shares about howa new IRIS rule has really impacted her life. We encourage you to ask her questions and/or share your experiences as well.

New Members

Stop by to welcomeour newest members:

• He wants to keepinformed about long-term care.
• Thismotherwants to learn about programs for her daughter.
• ThisVocational Coordinatorwants to keep current with whats happening and network with others.
• She wants to assist inpromoting disability rights.
• She joined the SD Networkto gather more information.
• This personworks with people with disabilitiesand wants to understand the upcoming changes.
• She joined the Network tokeep learning.
• She wants to betterunderstand the philosophy of self-determination.
• She's aSDS Specialist.

Do you know someone who should join the Self-Determination Network? Spread the word and invite friends, families and other interested folks!

Upcoming Events

Here's a sample ofupcoming eventslisted on the Self-Determination Network:

• Youth in Partnership with Parents for Empowerment (YiPPE):October 23^rdto 24^th, Sleep Inn & Suites Conference Center, Eau Claire WI
• Mia Mingus Presentation: October 23^rd, 4:15pm to 6pm, Sterling Hall, Madison

• Webinar: Accessible Trails: November 5^th, 1:30pm to 3pm, Online
• Self-Determination Conference:November 9^thto 11^th, Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells WI
• Across the Lifespan Conference: December 3^rdto 4^th, Chula Vista Resort, Wisconsin Dells WI
• Wisconsin Transition Conference: February 18^th to 19^th, Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells WI

Post your eventon the Self-Determination Network and it can be included in future Network News emails to members! Questions? Suggestions? ContactStacy Ellingen.

The Self-Determination Network is powered by In Control Wisconsin and supported financially by ourmembersandSponsors. We couldn't keep this Network going with you! Find out how you can help support the Network.

Meet Dennis Granzen. He has the unique perspective of being on both sideshe was an avid supporter and advocate for people with disabilities, but then he found himself needing support. Having this perspective has helped him understand the importance of self-determination and advocacy. We are so fortunate to have him as a member of the Self-Determination Network!

How are you involved with self-directed supports and self-determination? Why did you join the SDNetwork?

After almost twenty years working as a supporter and advocate for people with disabilities Dennis acquired that label myself, he says. His work had been with individuals, small groups and large groups of people of all ages, from four year olds to older adults, and included their families and friends. We focused on community inclusion, focusing on how people could share their gifts and abilities with those around them, he explains.

In relation to self-determination, this meant helping people create a vision of what they wanted their life to look like, and then coming up with a plan that reflected the vision. He explains that, most of these people were either teens transitioning to adulthood, or older adults trying to find a way to fit disability into their lives. After several difficult life events, he came to fit into the second category. He says that, at this time, I dont yet need formal in home supports those are performed by my wonderful family. Right now, most of his self-advocacy efforts center around doctors and other health care providers.

Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms self-determination or Self-Directed Supports?

Dennis feels that Wisconsins model to have Self Determined Supports is positive and respectful, but he says, we have to be vigilant in making sure we dont lose it to the ever shifting bureaucracy. He points out thats one of the reasons why joined the Self-Determination Network.

What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to direct their own supports, or who would want to be more self-determined?

After attempting to teach self-advocacy to others and then finding he needed to practice it for himself, Dennis found it harder to do than to talk about. He says, taking the time to stay calm and think through your thoughts means avoiding the urge, and expectation, to know and share the answers right away. He points out that it means accepting that things may get a little messy--maybe very messy-- before order is restored.

What message would you like to share with themembersof the SDNetwork?

One important thing Dennis has found helpful is that he does better when he involves others in his decision making. A trusted family member or friend goes a long way to making decisions that are thought through and better reflect my values, he explains. He points out that if these people respect and listen to him, the resulting decision is still his--and he feels stronger acting on and sticking to it.

What's your dream vacation?

Dennis dream vacation would be to go with his wife, older son and his girlfriend and travel to New York City to stay a week checking out the music scene. His younger son lives in Brooklyn and is studying drums and percussion at The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music. I then would go on with just my wife to Sanibel Island, Florida for a week to explore the sun, sand, shells and surf, he adds.

***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.

Change is hard on everyone. People say transitions are harder on adults. I have heard that change is even harder for people with disabilities. Maybe its because Im older or maybe its just me, but over the last couple months, Ive realized just how true these statements are.

Ive shared that Ive been an IRIS participant for over six years now. I love being able to self-direct my budget and make choices about my life. In fact, I believe everyone should have the option to self-direct. When I was living with my parents in Fond du Lac after college, we tried to find care agencies that would bill Medical Assistance for personal cares. As I explained in a previous journal entry, that didnt work. Agencies could not staff my shifts. My IRIS consultant at the time suggested I switch to Self-Directed Personal Care (SDPC), so I could hire my own staff. There was a waiting list for it, and by the time I got on it, we had heard that an apartment had become available in Oshkosh. I didnt realize it at the time, but we were very fortunate that the care agency associated with the apartments billed SDPC. So, until I moved in, I just hired my parents to do my personal cares (they obviously had been doing them anyway).

Things had been going so well with the care agency for four and a half years. Sure, there were ups and downs and bumps in the road, but, overall, it had been going very well. Over the last year or so, my IRIS consultant and nurse had been telling me that changes to SDPC and that we may have to make some changes. The change was that SDPC was no longer going to allow third party vendorsthey were only going to allow people to hire their own staff. I knew this wasnt a feasible option for me, but I wasnt too concerned because I thought the agency I had was a Medical Assistance provider. So, when I got a letter in the beginning of July saying this was indeed true and that I had until October 15^th to make the switch, I wasnt overly concerned as I thought I could just switch back to Medical Assistance for personal cares and keep my agency. I setup a meeting with my agency and my IRIS consultant and nurse for mid-July. This was when we found out that the agency wasnt a Medical Assistance provider.

This meant I either had to find my own staff or find a care agency that billed Medical Assistance. Unlike many other IRIS participants, I dont ever want to hire family and friends to be my primary caretakers. It just doesnt sit right with me. For some, its a great option, but thats not the case for me. I also know I could hire out myself by advertising in places such as newspapers and online, because of the amount of hours I need and various other factors, this isnt a feasible option for me. Therefore, I had to find an agency that billed Medical Assistance.

Thankfully, right after the meeting in July, my parents and I got on the ball right away and setup an interview with an agency that was a Medical Assistance provider. We met with them in late July. It was decided Id go with this agency. The agency had to hire multiple people to cover my shifts, so we knew itd take awhile to setup. After many stressful weeks trying to figure out what was going on, I finally started with the new agency last week.

Most people don't understand the gravity of changing agencies has on me, but it's truly life-changing for me. I kept asking my mom how I ever started at UW-Whitewater. She said, "Stac, you had no idea what you were in for," and she's exactly right! Switching care agencies means starting over with all new people and learning a whole new set of rules. Care agencies try to prevent clients and workers from becoming friends because its not ethically correct, but its almost impossible not to become friends with the people taking care of you. Theres a certain trust factor when it comes to personal cares. I have to get to know and train all new people. This is not an easy task for anyone, but its especially hard when youre non-verbal. I typed out detailed instructions for each care shift, but even with those, I have to get used to each new person and vice versa. Its pretty stressful and exhausting!

The change not only affected my life; it affected my parents life as well. They had an out-of-state trip planned in October. Since I was going to be with a new care agency, my mom and dad didnt feel comfortable leaving me behind. Originally, I was going to go with them, but, as the start date got pushed further and further back, we realized that cancelling cares for over a week right away probably wasnt the best idea. In the end, my parents decided to stay closer to home in case Id need anything. Im grateful for their sacrifice.

While personally I dont understand or agree with the third party vendor rule (I dont know how limiting who we can hire is self-direction), Ive accepted it and moved forward. Change, whether its big or small, isnt easy for anyone. We have to learn to adapt and move forward one step at a time!

The views expressed here are strictly those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of InControl Wisconsin, the Network or any of our sponsors.

This is a great article in Disability Scoopwritten by Michelle Diament about how wage protections for caregivers are finally set to take effect. She explains that there has been a lot of controversy over this, but the rule is set to take effect October 13th. The new rule states that "home care workers must be paid at least the federal minimum of $7.25 per hour and earn time-and-a-half for working more than 40 hours per week."

Long-Delayed Caregiver Wage Protections To Take Effect

By Michelle Diament

The U.S. Supreme Court has paved the way for an Obama administration rule mandating minimum wage and overtime for in-home caregivers assisting those with disabilities to be implemented.

Chief Justice John Roberts issued an order Tuesday denying a request from industry groups who sought to delay the new rule.

Under the2013 rulefrom the U.S. Department of Labor, most home care workers must be paid at least the federal minimum of $7.25 per hour and earn time-and-a-half for working more than 40 hours per week.

Previously, under a law dating to the 1970s, caregivers were classified similarly to baby sitters and were not entitled to the same rights as other types of employees.

Trade groups representing agencies that employ many home care workers sued over the changes arguing that the pay hike would make such care unaffordable.

Initially, the new requirements were set to take effect in January, but they were put on hold when a federal judgeruledthat the Labor Department had overstepped its authority. On appeal, however, a three-judge panelsidedwith the Obama administration.

Last month, the groups challenging the rule asked the Supreme Court to postpone implementation of the changes so that they could further appeal the decision. With Roberts order Tuesday, however, the rule is set to take effect Oct. 13.

We are pleased with todays order, U.S. Secretary of Labor Tom Perez said late Tuesday. The final rule is not only legally sound; it was the right thing to do. It will ensure fair wages for the nearly 2 million home care workers who provide critical services, and it will help ensure a stable and professional workforce for people who need those services.

The Labor Department said it will not begin enforcement of the new rule until Nov. 12 and will use prosecutorial discretion through the end of the year to assess whether to bring enforcement actions based on how much effort states and other relevant entities have put toward ensuring compliance.

Source:http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2015/10/07/long-delayed-caregiver-effect/20859/

This is an interesting article inDisability Scoopwritten by Shaun Heasley about a new ranking that list the best and worst cities for people with disabilities. While none of the top or bottom cities are in Wisconsin, it's still interesting to see which cities made the list. It's also interesting to read about some of the factors used to determine the ranking..

Ranking Names Most Livable Cities For People With Disabilities

By Shaun Heasley

A newrankingcrunches the numbers to assess the nations best and worst cities for those with disabilities.

The analysis from the consumer finance website WalletHub compares the countrys 150 most populated cities using 21 different metrics designed to evaluate cost of living, quality of life and access to health care.

Overland Park, Kan. comes in at number one on the list followed by Scottsdale and Peoria, Ariz., Tampa and St. Petersburg, Fla.

Rounding out the bottom five are Worcester, Mass., Moreno Valley and San Bernardino, Calif., Jersey City, N.J. and Providence, R.I.

The analysis gave extra weight to factors including each locales employment rate, poverty level and median earnings specific to people with disabilities. Other considerations included housing affordability, cost of in-home care services, walkability and the availability of doctors and special-education teachers.

WalletHub said the ranking is meant to identify the cities with the most suitable living conditions for people with disabilities.

Source: http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2015/10/01/ranking-livable-disabilities/20842/

This is a great article in theWisconsin State Journalwritten by Jill Carlson about VSA Wisconsin (the State Organization on Arts and Disability). She explains what VSA does and how it got started in Wisconsin. This sounds like a great organization for people with disabilities.

Defining individuals by ability, not disability

By Jill Carlson

VSA Wisconsin conducts arts programming for people with disabilities in more than 20 locations throughout Wisconsin. Field offices are strategically located in Madison and Milwaukee to benefit the nearly 1,900 people who use the services.

Thirty years ago, students with disabilities were educated in self-contained classrooms and many individuals with disabilities were institutionalized.

We have learned so much since then and educating students with disabilities is now a much broader field, especially since the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990, said Kathie Wagner, VSA Wisconsin president.

VSA Wisconsin embraced the integration of people with disabilities into classrooms alongside typically developing peers. The majority of VSA programing is done at early learning centers, schools and organizations that provide day services to people with disabilities.

VSA Wisconsin is a member of the VSA Affiliate Network, a program of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. The organization was founded by Jean Kennedy Smith in 1974 and was originally called the National Committee, Arts for the Handicapped (NCAH). Renamed Very Special Arts in 1985, VSA in 1998 and VSA arts in 1999, the international organization is dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults with disabilities by providing opportunities in the arts.

Many volunteers from across Wisconsin helped launch the state organization. Individuals from the Madison area that were part of that effort include Mary Ann Shaw, Bob Brennan, Herbert Grover, Mike George, Sue Ann Thompson and Mike Leckrone. Kay Lindblade was hired as the first executive director and led the organization for 15 years.

The participants served by VSA Wisconsin range in age from 3 years old to the senior population.

Participants cross all disability categories including physical cerebral palsy, spinal bifida, muscular dystrophy, visual, speech or hearing impairment, epilepsy, mental emotional and behavioral and cognitive disabilities such as autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, Fragile X, brain injury and other developmental disabilities.

The first Very Special Arts Festival in Wisconsin took place at the Milwaukee Art Center in l977 prior to incorporation.

This festival was one of only 27 pilot sites selected for festivals in 1977 by the National Committee, Arts for the Handicapped. Between l977 and l984 festivals were held in cities including Racine, Kenosha, Milwaukee, Wausau and Sheboygan.

VSA Wisconsin opened an art gallery in Madison in 2011 that enables artists with disabilities to sell their artwork and get public recognition.

VSA Wisconsin also operates a booth at Madisons annual Art Fair on the Square each summer. Artists receive 70 percent of the sales proceeds to encourage continued artmaking efforts.

Disability awareness training and professional development for artists, educators and cultural venues are other services provided by VSA Wisconsin.

The creative arts are a universal language and have the ability to level the playing field and change lives, socially, academically and vocationally, Wagner explained. People with disabilities want to have the same opportunities as everyone else, and they want to be recognized for what they can do, not what they cant do. We take individuals with disabilities who society has told are spectators and we help them transform themselves into performers and visual artists.

Dan Sullivan, a wood carver with a visual impairment, says it best, It continues to amaze me how much my artwork has taken off since associating with VSA Wisconsin. It is such a wonderful experience that as a result of being labeled an artist through your organization, I am now defined more than ever by ability rather than disability.

Source: http://host.madison.com/wsj/business/defining-individuals-by-ability-not-disability/article_5d6717d3-c068-5d9c-8a77-233b5a5eef5c.html

This is a great article in theDisability Connection Newsletterabout things that people with disabilities should know about emergency preparedness. Obviously, some of them don't pertain to people in Wisconsin, but there are a lot of great tips and resources in this.

10 Things You Should Know about Emergency Preparedness

1. Americas PrepareAthon. More than 21 million people across the U.S. are participating in preparedness activities are you one of them? Its not too late to sign up forhttp://community.fema.gov/hazard/hurricane/be-smart" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Americas PrepareAthon, which takes place on September 30th and marks the end ofhttp://www.ready.gov/september" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Preparedness Month. This nation-wide event includes activities in every state to make sure citizens know how to get ready for an emergency. Leading up to Americas PrepareAthon, learn about common hazards andhttp://community.fema.gov/take-action/hazards" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">download resourcesthat can help you prepare forhttp://community.fema.gov/hazard/earthquake/be-smart" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthquakes,http://community.fema.gov/hazard/flood/be-smart" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">floods,http://community.fema.gov/hazard/hurricane/be-smart" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hurricanes,http://community.fema.gov/hazard/tornado/be-smart" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tornadoes,http://community.fema.gov/hazard/wildfire/be-smart" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfiresandhttp://community.fema.gov/hazard/winter-storm/be-smart" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">winter storms.http://community.fema.gov/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Read storiesabout individuals, organizations and communities participating in this important initiative. Findhttp://community.fema.gov/take-action/activities" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PrepareAthon activitiesor add your own and helphttp://community.fema.gov/spread-the-word" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spread the word.http://www.community.fema.gov/connect.ti/AmericasPrepareathon/register" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Registeronline and be empowered to get prepared.
2. Inclusion in Emergency Planning. Since one in five people in the U.S. has a disability, this population must be considered whenhttp://nod.org/disability_resources/emergency_preparedness_for_persons_with_disabilities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planning for emergencies. Thehttp://www.acl.gov/NewsRoom/blog/2015/2015_09_04.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Administration for Community Livingrecently called for the inclusion of people with disabilities in emergency preparedness planning. If you havent seen it already, watch the Federal Emergency Management Agencys (FEMA) http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/videos/107805" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">We Prepare Every Day public service announcement (PSA) and learn about emergency preparedness for people with disabilities. https://usodep.blogs.govdelivery.com/2015/09/18/the-importance-of-preparing-every-day-for-the-unexpected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Importance of Preparing Every Day for the Unexpected, a recent Disability.Blog post by guest blogger Marcie Roth, director of the Office of Disability Integration and Coordination at FEMA, further drives this point home. Thehttp://nod.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Organization on Disabilityhas also developed ahttp://nod.org/assets/downloads/Guide-Emergency-Planners.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">guide for emergency managers, planners and respondersabout planning for people with disabilities in a disaster.http://www.ready.gov/individuals-access-functional-needs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Preparing in advance and creating a support networkallows people with disabilities to be included from the start in emergency planning. Disability.govshttps://www.disability.gov/resource/disability-govs-guide-emergency-preparedness-disaster-recovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Guide to Emergency Preparednessprovides additional resources.
3. What to Have on Hand.Stocking up onhttp://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1392389843033-75460345a2f4adcc5418a1da7cb25eef/2014_PrinterFriendly_DisabilitesSpecialNeeds.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">essential itemsthat may not be readily available during a disaster is a central part of emergency preparedness. Make sure to have at least a three-day supply ofhttp://www.ready.gov/food" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food, water and medicine for each person in your household. Choose non-perishable items such as canned and dry goods and have a gallon of bottledhttp://www.ready.gov/water" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">waterper day available for each person in your household. Wheelchair users are advised to keep a manual wheelchair or cushion available. Store extrahttp://www.ready.gov/faq-details/Medications-in-an-emergency-kit-1370032125843" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">medication and medical suppliesin your emergency kit. Your medications may be affected by things that happen during an emergency, such as exposure to high heat or contaminated water, so always check tohttp://www.fda.gov/Drugs/EmergencyPreparedness/ucm085200.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">make sure its safe to take the stored medications. Special precautions may be required forhttp://www.fda.gov/Drugs/EmergencyPreparedness/ucm085213.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insulin. If you have ahttps://www.medicare.gov/what-medicare-covers/prescriptions-in-disaster-or-emergency.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D)and you live in a place where a state of emergency has been declared, Medicare can help with getting the medications you need. To avoid any confusion, keep copies of your prescriptions in your emergency kit for reference.
4. Planning for Your Service Animal.People with disabilities who rely onhttp://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">service animalsmust also consider the animals needs whenhttp://nod.org/assets/downloads/Readiness-Tips-Owners-Pets.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planning for an emergency. Youll want to includehttp://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1392389819026-75460345a2f4adcc5418a1da7cb25eef/2014_PrinterFriendly_PetOwners.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emergency supplies, such as food and water, a first aid kit, medications and important documents, among other items. If you must evacuate to an emergency shelter,http://www.iaadp.org/disaster.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">know your rightsas a person with a service animal service animals must be allowed in shelters, but you are responsible for its behavior. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), emergency shelter workers can only ask if the service animal is required because of a disability and what tasks it has been trained to perform. They cant ask for documentation or certification for the service animal. Although geared towards pet owners, tips from thehttp://www.humanesociety.org/issues/animal_rescue/tips/pets-disaster.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Humane Societyand thehttps://www.aspca.org/pet-care/disaster-preparedness" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ASPCAcan also benefit people who use a service animal. For information about service animals and accommodating the needs of people with disabilities read http://www.ada.gov/emergencyprepguide.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Making Community Emergency Preparedness and Response Programs Accessible to People with Disabilities.
5. Workplace Preparedness.Having anhttp://www.ready.gov/workplace-plans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emergency preparedness plan at your place of workis just as important as having one at home. Under the ADA, an emergency plan at work may be considered ahttps://askjan.org/media/emergency.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reasonable accommodation. Together with your employer, you can create a plan that accommodates your specific disability. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission hashttp://www.eeoc.gov/facts/evacuation.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">guidelines for employersabout how to talk with their employees in a non-discriminatory way about accommodations that may be needed in an emergency. Once an emergency plan is in place, employers and employees should holdhttp://www.dol.gov/odep/pubs/fact/effective.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emergency drillsas practice to determine if any changes should be made to the plan in order to ensure safety.
6. Shelters and Accommodations.When an emergency strikes, your local emergency shelter may be the best option to stay safe.http://www.ada.gov/pcatoolkit/chap7shelterprog.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The ADA generally requires sheltersto provide equal access to the many benefits that shelters provide: safety, food, services, information and a place to sleep. All parts of a shelter, from its parking and entrances to restrooms, sleeping and dining areas, medical units and beyond, must be accessible to people with disabilities. Shelters should use thishttp://www.ada.gov/pcatoolkit/chap7shelterchk.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">checklist of ADArequirements in order to understand how to best serve people with disabilities. When preparing to go to a shelter, complete thishttp://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/sites/default/files/ux/green-form-fill.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shelter checklist, which will help you communicate about your accommodations and medical or other needs you may have once you arrive. You can find open shelters through thehttp://www.redcross.org/find-help/shelter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Red Cross.
7. Communicating during an Emergency.Emergency situations require quick, clear andhttps://www.fcc.gov/guides/emergency-communications" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">accessible communications. One critical part of our emergency communications system is the 911 network. You can call 911 from a home or mobile phone; if you have a hearing impairment, you may use the TTY service. Inhttps://transition.fcc.gov/pshs/911/Text911PSAP/Text_911_Master_PSAP_Registry.xlsx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">some areas, you can also send a text message to 911. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has developed ahttps://transition.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/text-to-911-consumer-guide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">guide about text-to-911 communicationsfrom landlines using TTY, as well as mobile phones, and how you can expect that to work. Another form of disaster communications, thehttps://www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/emergency-alert-system-eas" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emergency Alert System (EAS), gives national, state and local governments the ability to share emergency information with the public via broadcast, cable and wireless cable systems. All EAS broadcasts and emergency information from broadcast television and radio are required to be accessible by audio and visual means. Thehttps://www.fcc.gov/guides/emergency-video-programming-accessibility-persons-hearing-and-visual-disabilities" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FCC has specific requirementsfor the accessibility of disaster information and what must be provided to be people with disabilities.
8. First Responders.Emergency responders and law enforcement officers must understand the needs of people with disabilities when responding to a disaster. When communicating with someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, when an interpreter is not available, there are other ways tohttp://www.ada.gov/lawenfcomm.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communicate effectively. The Autism Society offershttp://www.autism-society.org/living-with-autism/how-the-autism-society-can-help/safe-and-sound/tips-for-first-responders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tips for communicating with children and adults with Autismor other sensory disabilities. You may also want to check out thesehttp://cdd.unm.edu/dhpd/pdfs/FifthEditionTipsSheet.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tips for first respondersthat focus on many other types of disabilities.http://www.fr-dat.com/assets/ListPage/Promising-Practices-final-1-21-2011.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">This guidefrom thehttp://www.inclusionresearch.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Inclusion Research Institutedetails ways that emergency personnel can best serve people with disabilities during a disaster. Watch a clip from a video called http://videos.disabled-world.com/video/460/disability-awareness-training-law-enforcement" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Disability Awareness Training for Law Enforcement that can help you communicate with and support people with a range of disabilities. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administrations (SAMHSA)http://store.samhsa.gov/apps/disaster/?WT.mc_id=EB_20140311_DISASTERAPP" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Behavioral Health Disaster Response Mobile Apphelps behavioral health responders organize and share disaster preparation, response and recovery resources. It includes a directory of behavioral health service providers in affected areas.
9. Current Events. You should have anhttp://www.ready.gov/build-a-kit" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emergency preparedness kitandhttp://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/documents/files/Family_Emegency_Plan.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emergency planready for a wide variety of hazards and emergency situations. Learn about emergency situations affecting the U.S. right now and how you canhttp://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/documents/files/FEMA-ReadySpNeeds_web.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prepare forand handle them.http://community.fema.gov/hazard/hurricane/be-smart" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hurricane seasonin the Atlantic lasts through November; in the Pacific, it lasts until December. Keep track of approaching hurricanes with the American Red Crosshttp://www.redcross.org/mobile-apps/hurricane-app" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hurricane app. In addition to your emergency kit,http://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1409003345844-0e142725ea3984938c8c6748dd1598cb/How_To_Prepare_Guide_Hurricane.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prepare yourself and your home: clean up your yard, store outdoor items that could be blown away by high winds and board your windows. Always evacuate your home if instructed to do so. California in particular has experienced manyhttp://community.fema.gov/hazard/wildfire/be-smart" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfiresthis year. Although the area is known for these occurrences, wildfires can happen anywhere at any time andhttp://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/drought" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dry conditionsincrease their likeliness. As with all emergencies, its important tohttp://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1409003859391-0e8ad1ed42c129f11fbc23d008d1ee85/how_to_prepare_wildfire_033014_508.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">be prepared. If you live where wildfires occur, you must behttp://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/wildfire" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ready to leaveat a moments notice. Make sure youhttp://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/wildfire" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">respond appropriately have two ways out, a place to stay once you leave and take needed supplies with you.http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/power-outage" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Power outagescan happen at any time, too. Turn off or unplug lights that arent being used anymore. Limit how many times you open your refrigerator so food stays cool longer. When its time to cook, use perishable foods from the fridge and foods from the freezer first then use your non-perishables. If you want to use a generator, never use it in an enclosed space, like a garage, and follow thesehttp://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/power-outage/safe-generator-use" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">safety tips. Learn about what to do duringhttps://beta.ready.gov/power-outage" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">power outragesif you usehttp://www.fda.gov/downloads/MedicalDevices/ProductsandMedicalProcedures/HomeHealthandConsumer/UCM252812.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">medical devices that require electricity.
10. Recovering from a Disaster.Disasters can take a toll on yourhttp://emergency.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental and emotional wellbeing; your personal recovery is an important part of the process of overcoming a disaster.http://www.redcross.org/find-help/disaster-recovery/recovering-emotionally" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emotional and mental health recoverytakes time. A key resource for support is SAMHSAshttp://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Disaster Distress Helpline. Call1-800-985-5990(TTY:1-800-846-8517) or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to speak with a trained crisis counselor. Remember, everyonehttp://www.apa.org/helpcenter/recovering-disasters.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">responds to a disasterdifferently, so it is important to understandhttp://media.samhsa.gov/MentalHealth/TraumaticEvent.aspx?from=carousel&position=1&date=3112011" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">how to copeandhttp://emergency.cdc.gov/preparedness/mind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">help others copeduring difficult times. Parents can read http://www.fema.gov/pdf/library/children.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Helping Children Cope with Disaster for information about how to help young children who are experiencing emotional issues related to a disaster. Situations such ashttps://www.usa.gov/after-disaster#item-37172" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">missing family members,http://www.ready.gov/returning-home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">returning homeorhttps://www.usa.gov/after-disaster#item-35967" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">finding a place to staymay also contribute to post-disaster stresses. Financial assistance is also available. Visithttp://www.disasterassistance.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DisasterAssistance.govor use FEMAshttp://asd.fema.gov/inter/locator/home.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Disaster Recovery Center Locatorto find help. You can alsohttp://www.fema.gov/do-i-qualify-assistance" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">apply for FEMA disaster assistanceonline or by calling1-800-621-3362. The Small Business Administrationshttps://www.sba.gov/content/home-and-personal-property-loans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Home and Property Loansare low-interest loans that help homeowners and renters inhttps://www.sba.gov/content/current-disaster-declarations" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">declared disaster areaswhose home or personal property has been damaged by a disaster. Even ifyoure not asmall business owner, you can apply for up to $200,000 to replace or repairyour primary residence. And remember,http://www.fema.gov/emergency-management-agencies" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">your states emergency management agencycan help you prepare for, and recover from, an emergency or disaster.