If you’re a doctor, nurse, therapist, or other health care provider, you can play an important role in helping your patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families create strong, well-informed plans for the future. Familiarity with the planning process can be helpful as you talk to patients about their health goals, who can help them make medical decisions, and what to do in an emergency.
Here are some resources that can help:
- Teaching and learning resources from the Alliance for Disability in Health Care Education
- Downloadable documents on a person-centered approach to health and wellness
- A toolkit for primary care providers on health care for adults with IDD
For specific information in your state, contact a chapter of The Arc near you, find your stateās IDD agency, or use our resource directory to find professionals near you.
How You Can Help
Ask About the Future
Talk with patients about their goals, dreams, and concerns. These conversations can guide your care recommendations as their needs or living situations change.
Get to Know Relevant Documents
Some patients may use powers of attorney or supported decision-making instead of guardianship. Know what documents your practice accepts and how to work respectfully with patients who use different forms of support.
Prepare for Urgent Situations
Be ready to assist patients or aging caregivers facing sudden changes. Know your communityās emergency and support resources so you know who to call if a family needs immediate support.
Support Caregivers & Be Patient
Parents often worry about what will happen when they canāt care for their adult child. Offer empathy and guidance by listening, sharing resources, and connecting them with organizations that can help with future planning.
Learn About Disability Rights
Understanding laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act and the principles of person-centered care will help you better communicate with and support patients with disabilities and their families.
Start Building a Future Plan
A written future planāsometimes called a letter of intentāshares the person with IDDās wishes and daily routines, so the people who help them know how to provide support and can help make decisions with confidence. A future plan can guide health care, finances, and lifestyle choices. It also provides information about important people, including caregivers, support workers, and medical professionals.
Professionals can help families understand the importance of future planning and provide guidance when they explore planning priorities. Our planning template makes it easy to get started!
Explore Future Planning Webinars
Learn more about key future planning topics from experts, families, and people with disabilities. These free recorded webinars cover everything from housing and decision-making to finances and building support networks.
Related Resources
Video
Why Future Planning Is Important