Midland Empire Resources for Independent Living

Have you thought about this for yourself or someone you love? How about your neighbor or friend? At any given moment, the unthinkable can happen. Or perhaps you are already struggling remaining in your home due to barriers. What barriers do you think you would face? What are your options: staying in your home, living with someone else, or living in an institutional setting? Which would you prefer? These are questions that you should be thinking about now.

Most people think of physical inaccessibility when referring to barriers. Did you know that there are other types of barriers such as attitudinal and communication? Physical limitations can include access in and out of your home, kitchen accessibility, bath room barriers, and more. Attitudinal applies to how one is treated. Well meaning family members can try to take over when their loved one becomes disabled. The person’s rights must be respected and their wishes carried out as long as the person’s health, safety, and welfare have been met. Remember the old saying; put yourself in someone else’s shoes? Although you can’t totally know what someone is dealing with, just asking them what they need or if they need assistance is best.

Communication barriers in a home need to be considered. Can the phone be used by all in the home? Amplified phones can assist or if Deaf, perhaps a video phone. MO Assistive Technology has a TAP for Telephone program that can assist with getting an amplified phone. This service is available through MERIL. Setting up a lifeline may help someone with emergencies and give peace of mind to all involved. Visual impairments or blindness can overcome barriers by contacting Rehab Services for the Blind. Assistive equipment can also provide aid such as magnifiers, CCTVs and more. Providing an interpreter is vital for communicating with people who are Deaf.

The key to staying in your home is knowing your rights and what services are available. The Client Assistance Program with MO Protection and Advocacy can assist with problems with a rehabilitation agency such as Vocational Rehabilitation, Independent Living Centers, and Rehabilitation Services for the Blind. Look to your Independent Living Center for resources and referrals. If you or someone you know is building a new home, encourage them to think about universal design where people of different abilities can live. Remember, you have the right to live in your home and your community as long as your health, safety, and welfare has been assured.

Links:
MO Protection & Advocacy
Rehabilitation Services for the Blind
MERIL
MO Assistive Technology