Supported decision making (SDM) is a flexible alternative to guardianship which provides a process that recognizes people with disabilities as persons before the law, providing a pathway to exercise legal capacity by focusing on developing supports to enable autonomous decision-making. The Council on Quality and Leadership recently issued a paper about applying approaches of SDM in the US.  It also discusses best practices and benefits of SDM over other forms of legal representation.

Read paper

Meet Mike.  This self-advocate began leading a self-determined life at a very young age.  He believes that having the simplest choices can help a person become more self-determined.  When he’s not busy volunteering for the Wisconsin Augmentative Alternative Communication Network or attending conferences, he enjoys catching up on his favorite TV shows.  We’re so fortunate to have Mike as a member of the Self-Determination Network. 

How are you involved in self-determination?  Why did you join the SD Network?

Mike joined the SD Network to keep up on in Wisconsin for people with disabilities.  He explains that he has lots of friends on the Network, so they like to discuss what’s happening on the website. 

Tell me some good news – what’s the most exciting happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms of self-determination?

Mike was happy that the passing of the state budget ended waiting lists for people with disabilities. He says that this will help a lot of people to get much needed services.  He’s also looking forward to attending two special education conferences soon. 

What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?

Mike encourages parents who have children who have disabilities to start giving the child options at a young age.  Simple things, such as picking out his/her own clothes or telling someone what  he/she wants for lunch, can be crucial in leading a self-determined life.  He points out that children who are nonverbal can do this too.  “That’s how I got started living a self-determined life,“ he says. 

What message would you like to share with the members of the SD Network?

Mike would like to three things with the members.  First and foremost, he says that people have to have hope everyday because if people don’t, they’ll never be happy.  Second, he says, “we need to work with what God has given us.”   Lastly, he encourages people to try something at least three times before given up. 

What are some of your hobbies?

Mike is very involved in the Wisconsin Augmentative Alternative Communication Network and currently he’s busy getting ready for the United States Society of Augmentative Alternative Communication 2018 Membership Drive.  In his free time, he enjoys catching up on his favorite TV shows. 

***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.

The Americans with Disabilities Act covers many aspects of disability rights that affect the everyday lives of people with disabilities. One major element of the ADA is its regulations regarding sidewalks. A new paper, written by faculty and students at Syracuse University College of Law, presents the historical and modern state of the ADA's legal influence on sidewalks and answers important legal questions about the duties of local communities and governments under the ADA.

The paper examines several topics, including how different laws define "sidewalk," when performing sidewalk repairs will bring older sidewalks under the scope of the ADA, and how snow removal can affect accessibility. It also offers a summary of the currently available resources for businesses and governments to use in planning for accessible sidewalks.

Read paper

It's estimated that people who receive Social Security could see a 1.8% increase in 2018.  This is based on an annual cost of living adjustment.  The cost of living adjustment is based on consumer price index data.  The article explains that estimating the cost of living adjustment has been more challenging this year due to the impact of the major hurricanes.

Read more

The Justice Department issued guidance earlier this year to facilitate compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) during interactions criminal justice entities have with individuals with mental health, intellectual, or developmental disabilities. The document sets forth the key regulatory provisions under the ADA and also provides recommendations for anticipating and preparing for disability-related needs of individuals. Recommendations include training criminal justice personnel, conducting reviews of policies and procedures, and collaborating with mental health and disability service providers.

Read more

A new report reveals that direct care workers can't afford to stay in their jobs.  The average home care worker makes $10.49 an hour, but due to varying hours, people typically don't make enough to live on.  The report states that most home care workers live below the poverty line.

Read more

According to a new national report, Wisconsin is expected to need an additional 20,000 home care workers  by 2024.  It's widely known that there is already a serve shortage of care workers in the state.  Many blame low wages and poor working conditions for this.  A 4% increase for Medicaid reimbursement for personal care workers was approved in the recent state budget, but many  felt a 15% increase is needed to do  any good.

Read more

In 2017, the National Association of States United for Aging Disabilities administered a survey of state agencies that deliver Long Term Services and Supports, including aging and disability agencies as well as Medicaid programs, regarding the significant policy, fiscal, and operational issues occurring within each state. During the survey, they collected detailed information about the structure of agencies, the supports provided, and the populations served by state programs.

View results