All people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities (IDD) have the right to live in the communities of their choosing and the opportunity to be fully included with people who do not have IDD.
It is the Position of TheArc New York that:
- People with IDD have the right to be integrated in their communities.
- People with IDD benefit from knowledge of and access to financial tools like ABLE accounts and Supplemental Needs Trusts. As such, all appropriate financial resources must be available to people with IDD.
- Adults should control where and with whom they will live, with affordable opportunities to rent or buy their own homes.
- Funding for supports and services must follow people with IDD and not be tied to a facility or a location. This includes the person’s right to choose independent living through the use of technology supports and services.
- Necessary individualized supports, adaptations and choices regarding living arrangements should be of their choosing and under their control.
- The health and safety of people must be safeguarded wherever they live and deserve a person-centered environment that provides love and security at all times.
- Fully funded and high-quality, individualized supports and services, including appropriate accommodations, must be available to meet the needs of the person.
- The person with IDD, family members, and guardians when necessary, must have the choice of working with a range of provider agencies and options to help find the appropriate residence for their family member.
- People with IDD who choose to live at home with their families have the right to receive the necessary supports and services, including ready access to high quality medical and psychiatric care as needed.
