A closer look at disability support
Support that follows the person's lead
Good disability support starts from what the person wants for their own life, not from a list of limitations. A caregiver can help with the tasks that are hard, so that energy goes into the things that matter: work, study, friends, hobbies and independence.
What disability support can include
- Personal care: washing, dressing, grooming and toileting
- Transfers and mobility, including wheelchair users
- Meal preparation and help at mealtimes
- Household tasks, shopping and managing a weekly routine
- Support getting to work, classes, appointments and social events
- Respite for parents or partners who provide most of the care
Communication and respect
Talk to the person, not about them. Ask how they prefer to communicate and receive help, and let them make choices. When you send a care request, describe routines, communication preferences and any equipment used, such as hoists or communication devices.
Funding
Many states offer Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers that can fund in-home support, and some allow participants to choose their own caregivers ("self-direction"). Rules differ by state and program, so check with your state Medicaid office or disability services agency about whether a caregiver found on CaregiverCrew can be paid through your program.
Caregivers provide non-medical support. Tasks such as tube feeding, ventilator care or medication administration usually require a licensed professional or specific state authorization.
