It’s commonly believed that parents should not have to outlive their children unless faced with a tragic circumstance. This belief becomes especially poignant seeing our children grow up with developmental disabilities to a point where they may rely on their parents to fulfill their basic needs as adults. Such a situation presents a complex challenge with far-reaching implications, not just for the family but for the state.
Disability service provider shortage
The issue is not with individuals impacted by developmental disabilities but with the poor support system that is currently in place. Despite the crucial role played by disability service providers across the state, this industry has long been in jeopardy due to inadequate compensation and consequent struggles in attracting and retaining qualified staff.
This problem has been further compounded by Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposal to delay the much-needed rate increase for disability service providers until January 2025, worsening the existing wage gap within the industry. As a result, families with children who have developmental disabilities will continue to face challenges in finding quality care for their loved ones while also highlighting the urgent need for reform and support within this critical sector of society.
Autism disability stats
Statistics from a recent report show that in 2022-23, an average of 16,250 new individuals with autism entered the regional center system in California. This number is only expected to increase as service demand continues to rise.
Another alarming statistic is that 99% of these new consumers in 2023 had autism, highlighting the prevalence and impact of this developmental disorder. Also, approximately 65% of adults living with developmental disabilities in California are still residing with their parents, showcasing the lack of independent living options and resources available for this population.
The need to compensate care providers better
The solution lies in offering competitive compensation to attract high-quality care providers for disabled adults, as the current hourly rate for fast food workers surpasses that of care providers. In short, the critical issue at hand is the lack of care providers, which hinders the ability of disabled individuals to advance in their careers and receive proper support and development. This issue is further exacerbated by the current budget deficit and delays in increasing provider rates, highlighting the need for efficient use of limited state funds.
Failure to address this matter will ultimately result in dire consequences, such as homelessness, unemployment, poverty, and institutionalization for disabled adults who are unable to receive appropriate long-term care services. It is, therefore, imperative for the state to prioritize funding for disability services to prevent these negative outcomes and ensure proper care for this vulnerable population.
Overall, we at Sacramento ABA Therapy recognize the urgency of this matter and consistently strive to raise Autism Awareness and advocate for adequate funding of disability services.
For treatment support and preventative measures, look no further than Sacramento ABA. Let us work together towards a more inclusive society.
