Program helps people return to their communities
DSHS’ Roads to Community Living is a demonstration project designed to help people with complex, long-term care needs move from institutions such as nursing homes, hospitals, or residential habilitation centers back into the community. Here are the experiences of two Washingtonians who have taken part in the program:
Lisa’s story:
Lisa’s journey to independence was challenging. After being hospitalized due to medical complications she could not find a nursing facility near her hometown of Vancouver. Her sister, who was already juggling a full-time job and caring for their aging mother, wanted to help but couldn’t provide the full support Lisa needed. Lisa’s only option was Transitional Care Center, a nursing facility, in Seattle.
For two years, Lisa stayed there, holding onto hope of returning to the Vancouver area. Her family made the six-hour round trip to visit her once a month. When she completed her rehabilitation, her case manager introduced her to Roads to Community Living, a program designed to help people transition from institutional settings into the community. Through this program Lisa had the opportunity to move into her own apartment in Vancouver with the right supports in place.
To help navigate this transition, Lisa worked with a Community Choice Guide — a professional who can assist people in planning their move into the community. With the help of her CCG and sister, Lisa found an apartment. Funds available through Roads to Community Living helped cover move-in costs and provided essential household items. Lisa also met with a professional for a Technology Support Consultation which helped resolve mobility challenges and maximize the use of assistive devices and technology in her new environment.
In December, Lisa’s dream became a reality as she left the nursing facility and moved into her new home. She was able to celebrate both her birthday and Christmas in the comfort of her own apartment. Now she has caregivers that have helped her establish a steady routine. She frequently uses accessible transport to go shopping, attend medical appointments and visit family. Reflecting on her journey, Lisa admits that she never imagined she could regain this level of freedom and independence. Thanks to the support from Roads to Community Living, she feels truly content in her new chapter of life.
Cameron’s Story:
Cameron was 38 years old when he was admitted to Transitional Care Center of Seattle. Due to his medical complexities he struggled to find a facility that could meet his needs in the Yakima area. He spent four and a half years at TCCS while searching for community living options in Seattle without success.
After learning about housing vouchers from another nursing facility resident, Cameron enrolled onto Roads to Community Living and discussed his interest in obtaining a housing voucher with his case manager. This led to restarting Community Choice Guiding services, a service which can assist the client and case manager with planning and coordinating their move into the community.
With the help of his CCG, Cameron was successful in securing an ALTSA Bridge Subsidy Voucher and finding an apartment in Yakima. With the assistance of CCG services, technology support consultation, assistive technology supports, and personal caregiving, Cameron now lives independently in this hometown and is grateful for his regained independence.
For more information on Roads to Community Living, including how you can qualify, please visit our website.
