Services

Every phase of our respective lives features times of transition. And transition means change, which can be frightening and difficult. But it can also be full of opportunity and wonder! The transition from the work force into retirement is no different. As such, not everyone looks forward to retirement. The reasons vary, but include economic loss, loss of socialization and friendships, isolation, and boredom. And this is just as true for folks with developmental disabilities as it is for folks without them. AADD develops individualized transition plans that are consistent with the wants and needs of each individual, ensuring that people can preserve their sense of self and identity into and through their retirements. In order to ensure a comprehensive plan, we utilize input from family members and others who know the person well. Each retirement plan is custom designed, and some include supports for family members as well.

WE♥CARE is designed for mutual caregiving, where two or more parties are caring for one another. The WE♥CARE curriculum was developed by AADD in conjunction with UMKC-IHD in response to the growing number of mutual caregivers throughout the country, specifically, to support scenarios in which at least one party has a developmental disability. Nationwide, there is a lack of information, support, and resources available to guide caregivers with developmental disabilities in a mutual caregiving arrangement. This curriculum focuses on instilling confidence as a caregiver through skill development, connecting with the community, accessing resources, and learning to identify the needs of oneself and others. It was developed for implementation within organizations that serve individuals with developmental disabilities, WE♥CARE can be facilitated by a variety of personnel, including direct support professionals, organizational staff, social workers, and volunteers. All WE♥CARE materials are available for download at no cost and can be found at https://ihd.umkc.edu/we-care-curriculum/.

Through contracts with Case Management, AADD provides individualized one on one support to individuals in accessing their community. This service provides the individual, as well as their family members, with the supports needed to maintain maximum independence. These services range from 1 hour to 40 hours per week, depending on the type of contract and the need.

The Supported Living program teaches independent living skills and supports individuals in developing and maintaining the skills needed to succeed in independent living. These supports may include someone to assist with bill paying, shopping, meal preparation and cooking, housekeeping, personal care and hygiene problem solving, or other individualized needs. This service is available to adults (age 18 and over) with a developmental disability living in St. Louis City.