For adults with intellectual disabilities, an uncertain future
April 27th, 2008From the Seattle Times, the first of a two-part series on the changing needs of adults with developmental disabilities. For years, their parents have cared for them, saving the government untold millions of dollars. But what will happen when their caregivers can’t do it any longer? And who will pay?
James Jensen, 47, is part of the first generation of people with developmental disabilities likely to outlive their parents in great numbers. His parents are in their early 80s, and are showing signs of slowing down. James, who has Down syndrome, has always lived with them. His mother, Delores, says he is a blessing.
When James was small, families routinely sent their children with Down syndrome to institutions — as Delores Jensen was urged to do with her son. Nowadays institutionalization is rare, but the state has not planned or funded services to take care of people like James after their families are unable to do so.
Delores’ plan, a friend concludes, is to live forever.
Related stories from the Seattle Times:
- Change in social attitudes helps lengthen lives
- Providing for future poses extra challenges
- Services in short supply
- People with Down syndrome are living longer
- Where to get help
This entry was posted
on Sunday, April 27th, 2008 at 3:17 pm and is filed under Down syndrome, NOT2BEMISSED, News_2_Use, independent living, institutionalization, intellectual disabilities, parents, personal stories.
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