New Data Reveals Our Nation is Neglecting People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
New Data Reveals Our Nation is Neglecting People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Survey findings from The Arc of U.S., reveal nation’s efforts fail to provide fundamentals for individuals and families
Fifty years ago, President Kennedy called on the nation to bring people living with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) “out of the shadows,” to give them opportunities to lead productive, quality lives. Sadly, new data released from The Arc’s Families and Individual Needs for Disability Support (FINDS) survey shows efforts have plateaued and not nearly enough progress has been made to create these opportunities. While budget cuts and economic strain have hurt all Americans, the 7 million living with I/DD and their families are among the hardest hit, with access to needed services drastically reduced. In fact, 62 percent of caregivers reported a decrease in services for their family member with a disability. Meanwhile, budget proposals in Congress threaten to dismantle Medicaid, making it even harder for people with I/DD and their families to achieve. To continue reading more information about the impact of the FINDS survey to our community, please click here.
“As senior parents and caregivers to an aging daughter with a developmental disability we rely on the support of one another and consider The Arc an added member and blessing to our family,” said Uta Tipper. “We are so encouraged by the ongoing support, compassion, understanding and advocacy from The Arc, and we rest assured knowing we aren’t walking this path alone.”
