May 2020
No decision yet on re-opening DD service programs

Although Ohio's current extended stay-at-home order is set to expire this Friday, May 1, 2020, no decision has been made yet on the re-opening of DD service programs, which includes adult day programs/centers.

DODD Director Jeff Davis sent a message last week to remind county boards of DD, providers, and families that the   March 21 public health order   concerning the provision of Adult Day Services (ADS) in Ohio remains in effect at this time. This means that—unless it is rescinded or replaced by another order by Governor DeWine—Ohio's adult day service programs must continue to operate under current restrictions until further notice.

In his message, Director Davis shared: "The uncertainty of this time has been difficult for everyone, and the struggle to overcome this challenge will continue as we work together through a very gradual and multi-phased process of reopening day services. The timeline for this process will look much different from other businesses in the general public (elective surgeries, non-essential business, etc.), as the support system in Ohio depends on many people, in many different environments, to keep people receiving services healthy and safe."

Cuyahoga DD understands that people may be anxious to return to adult day service programs. However, public health officials continue to caution that in order to avoid coming into contact with COVID-19, it is best for individuals who are more vulnerable to continue to stay home for as long as possible.
 
As providers of adult day services begin to plan for the re-opening of their facilities, they will need to assure us that they are in compliance with mandatory public health guidelines, including  social distancing, cleaning and sanitation, maintaining proper hygiene, and adequate supply of personal protective equipment (PPE). Cuyahoga DD will use a team approach and person-centered planning to decide when it's appropriate to authorize adult day services on a person-by-person basis. Consideration will be given to factors like the person’s living arrangement and health status as well as the ability of the adult day service agency to meet the mandatory public health guidelines and other relevant factors.

Futu re updates will be available at www.cuyahogabdd.org and www.dodd.ohio.gov .
Cuyahoga DD Board approves funds to help local DD provider agencies pay for non-Medicaid expenses incurred as a result of COVID-19

At its regular meeting held on April 23, 2020, Cuyahoga DD's Board unanimously approved local funding to be used to reimburse provider agencies for non-Medicaid expenses they may incur in order to maintain the continuity of services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Funds will be made available to both independent providers and provider agencies, caring for people with developmental disabilities during the current health crisis.

“I am pleased to make this funding available to further support the service providers in Cuyahoga County," shares Kelly Petty, Cuyahoga DD Superintendent & CEO. " The Board of DD recognizes and greatly appreciates the vital role of service providers. They have done an outstanding job caring for people during this extraordinary time."
2020 marks the 30th Anniversary of the
Americans with Disabilities Act
Caring for a loved one with a developmental disability in your home? $750-$1,500 may be available to support you through the Family Supports Program.

Changes to Cuyahoga DD's Family Supports Program mean that everyone who lives at home with family (including children of all ages) and who does not receive waiver funding is eligible for at least $750. People age 18 and older qualify for $1,500. Funding may be used for resources and services like respite care, camp assistance, leisure/recreation activities, specialized equipment, home modifications and more.

Cuyahoga DD therapists share their experiences and advice about using video conferencing to deliver home visits

Four Cuyahoga DD therapists helped to create a series of instructional videos for the national Early Childhood Technical Assistance (ECTA) Center. The purpose of this video series is to share insights and best practices on the use video conferencing to conduct virtual visits to families with young children.

Over 2/3 of families in Cuyahoga DD's Early Intervention Program have been participating in virtual visits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Families have appreciated this option to continue to receive support benefitting the development of their infants and toddlers.
This new CareLine is staffed by credentialed counselors who have been trained to provide free, confidential support for a wide range of needs, including mental health concerns, substance use, problem gambling, and more. Individuals experiencing an acute crisis can still reach out to the Ohio Crisis Text Line (keyword 4HOPE to 741 741) or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255). 

Call 1-800-720-9616 to connect with trained counselors.

Call from 8 AM to 8 PM, seven days per week. After 8 PM, the CareLine will forward to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
Looking for activities and resources to help make a meaningful day?
We can help.

Cuyahoga DD has created listings of activities, resources and links to help you discover new ways to spend time and keep active. Click HERE to view these resources. Be sure to view the Cuyahoga DD Facebook page too where more ideas and activities are shared.
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