Primary Care for the Developmentally Disabled Adult


	It is important to know about the individual’s community living environment. The possibilities range from nursing homes through smaller group homes to family or independent living situations. How many other people reside with the individual? Are any trained staff physically present and at what hours? What training do they have?
	In intensively supervised settings, medications are administered by professional staff. Persons with milder DD may have no assistance at home and will need careful instruction to assure administration of medications.
	Many people with DD are successfully trained to enter the work force and are riding public transportation, running errands and engaging in recreation. People with more severe disabilities who have access to adult care services may have a day structured with defined activities at defined times, often carried out in groups.
	The old state institutions usually had a broad complement of clinical staff on site, often including an infirmary. In the community, people have home-like environments. In making care decisions, it is essential to assure that an appropriate level of care is available before sending a person with DD home.
	Family members may or may not be involved in the individual’s life. Any person who is deemed incapable of serving as their own conservator will have an appointed guardian who has responsibility for key decisions including healthcare choices. There may or may not be an advance directive.