Direct Care Workforce Crisis Advocacy Update

Lisa M. Marn, M.Ed., PCA/LTSS Coordinator

On May 26^th, 2022, I and about twenty other advocates from all over Ohio participated in the Ohio Olmstead Taskforce’s Legislative Advocacy Day in Columbus. I met with legislative aides for Senator Kenny Yuko and Representative Daniel Troy and discussed the issues surrounding the Direct Care Workforce Crisis such as low wages, lack of benefits, and the difficulty becoming a provider. We asked for two considerations: 1. A minimum wage specifically for direct care workers that would attract more potential workers. 2. An inter-agency coalition be developed comprised of departments of Medicaid, Aging, and Developmental Disabilities. We advocated that representation be present from the Department of Labor, Department of Education, providers, and consumers of services as well. We also met with Scott Partika who is with Governor DeWine’s office. Our message was well received by all and we intend to keep communication open with legislators and the Governor’s office until the crisis improves.

I understand how bad this crisis is on a number of levels. I wish I could magically change the state of the direct care workforce situation, but I cannot. SIL will continue its advocacy efforts in this area. If you have questions or needs to talk about your situation, feel free to call me at (216) 731-1529 or send me an email at lmarn@sil-oh.org.

SIL's Equipment Program

Supplies for Independent Living

Shower chairs, also known as tub chairs, shower seats, shower benches, shower stools, and transfer benches can provide much-needed stability in the tub or shower. A shower seat is one of the many options that can keep the bathroom safe and allow you to maintain independence while bathing. Shower seats provide you with a safe and comfortable place to rest while bathing if you tire easily or cannot stand for long periods, which can prevent falls.

There are a variety of types of shower chairs available. When considering a shower seat, always consider its durability and slip-proof capacity. You should also consider your height, weight, and mobility level. Do you just need a stool to rest on while in the shower? Or a full transfer system to help you with every step along the way? Also, be sure to measure your bathtub or shower area. All of these questions can help determine the type of shower chair you need. And always seek your health care provider's guidance in selecting the shower chair for you.

SIL's Supplies for independent Living's equipment program can provide you with a necessary shower seat.  Our goal is to help individuals who are not able to purchase or obtain equipment through their health insurance.

Contact us today at 216-731-1529 if you require a shower chair.

Program requirements:

• Call to confirm availability of equipment or supplies.  Equipment is available on a first come, first served basis and availability varies.

• Fax (216-731-3083) or bring in the prescription for the item. Your physician must sign the prescription.
  

• Contact SIL to confirm receipt of prescription if faxed.

• Set up an appointment to pick-up equipment once the prescription is sent to SIL and availability of item(s) is confirmed.
  

Lake County Students Age 14 to 22

Youth Empowerment Group

Services for Independent Living (SIL) is partnering with the Lake County Board of DD for a youth empowerment group. Topics that may be covered include self advocacy, independence, effective communication, and community participation. Participants must be Lake County students ages 14-22 years.

The first session is September 8th, 2022 from 5:30pm - 6:30pm.

Advocates, Age 18 to 33

Young Adult Council (YAC)

Young Adult Council (YAC) is a statewide community led council; hands-on/internship approach that will provide young adults the opportunity to participate in a realistic policy making environment.

YAC is for advocates age 18 to 33, who have a disability, and want to learn how to make a difference by gaining confidence with their leadership experience in community decision-making on issues that are important to him or her.

Fall sessions resume August 18, 2022.  For more information on YAC contact us at 216.731.1529.

Supplies for Independent Living

Making a Difference

• Through a Home Modification & mergency preparedness grant funded by OSILC, SIL assisted persons that identified with paralysis to obtain minor home modifications and to participate in an emergency preparedness class. SIL was able to assist 7 people with 4 grab bars, 2 ramps, 3 handheld shower heads, 1 stair lift, and 1 VPL. A total of 20 people attended the emergency preparedness class.
  
• SIL has a 96% satisfaction rating for individual services provided. Surveys were conducted by a non-direct care staff member at the conclusion of services. In addition, 93% reported the CIL assisted them in achieving their goals and 94% of closed consumers would recommend the CIL to friends/family. When asked how SIL services will help in everyday life, the most common answer was “knowing how to advocate for myself,” with “managing my disability” and “controlling my own life” tied for second in next common answers shared.
  
• SIL’s Supplies for Independent Living helps individuals obtain gently used or new items that were not covered by their insurance carrier. Types of equipment included items such as wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds and incontinence supplies. 156 items were distributed to 49 individuals in the last reporting year. If you are in need of an item, please call our office and check our inventory! A medical script is needed for all items.
  
• SIL received another 3-year accreditation by CARF (Commission on Accreditation on Rehabilitation Facilities) earlier this year!