The United States has more the 800,000 adults with intellectual disabilities living with caregivers who are more than 60 years old. In Colorado, almost 10,000 adults with intellectual disabilities live with caregivers past age 60.
In Colorado, the assistance funds are shrinking as the waiting lists for residential care continue to increase. The statewide waiting list for comprehensive services (residential) is over 4,300. (3/2007)
In our immediate area, Boulder and Broomfield Counties, serviced by the State Regional Community Center Board, Imagine!, the total number of those on the waiting list is over 350. (Imagine! Report 2007)
Colorado’s average expenditure for Comprehensive services per Medicaid recipient is 25% below the U.S. average. Colorado ranks 48th in the nation in total spending for services to persons with intellectual disabilities (CU, Coleman Institute 2005).
Over 80% of adults with intellectual disabilities are not employed (Presidents Committee for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities 2004)
The numbers are increasing due to inadequate funding through state and federal resources, more people with development disabilities are being identified than in the past, and life spans are increasing due to better physical care. It is easy to see in the next ten to twenty years the need for new care options will significantly swell.
By focusing on the innate abilities in all people, Glory Community is committed to providing better options for those families who need residential care for their loved ones. Rather than spotlighting the disability, the goal is to encourage the ability and foster independent living in a safe, loving environment. |
