Giving the Future Some Thought...

   There's a lot of talk on the airwaves and in government meetings about the massive increase in the need for medical care in the coming years as the Baby Boomers begin to start feeling the effects of their long, full lives. As this historic wave of increased population rolls into its Golden Years, there will come another wave of need on its heels that no one seems to be talking about.

   The need to care for adults with intellectual disabilities.

   Anyone even remotely associated with Special Olymics, Special Education, or a friend or family member with intellectual disabilities can tell you our society has offered woefully few options for this segment of our population. In recent years, the quality and amount of care available nationwide has made great strides, but there is still a long way to go to provide the qualilty and quantity of services the intellectually challenged.

HopeTree Family Services has been making a dedicated effort to provide the highest standard of service to adults with intellectual disabilities and their families for nearly 20 years. In that span of time, we've learned a lot and make every effort to share what we've learned with anyone facing the dilema of providing long-term care for an adult with intellectual disabilities.

Perhaps the most valuable bit of advice is: PLAN AHEAD. The demand for services is high and will get substantially higher in the coming years. The supply of quality care facilities is limited. It is not unusual for a family to wait 6-8 years for a space to become available in a care facility.

Make sound, informed financial plans. Medicare Waiver funds for adults with disabilities are also in high demand and short supply. The waiting list is long. Families should begin as soon as possible to develop financial strategies to cope with the high cost of long-term care.

HopeTree Family Services encourages all families caring for someone with intellectual disabilities to explore as many options and alternatives as possible. The more information you have at your disposal, the greater chance you will make the most appropriate decision for the welfare of your loved one.

If you would like to discuss the options we offer, please call 540-389-5468 and ask to speak with someone in the Developmental Disabilities Ministry.