Florida Developmental Disabilities Council

The National Association for the Dually Diagnosed conducted a research study to identify the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities with co-occurring mental health conditions (i.e., dual diagnosis).  The research study resulted in a state strategic plan to provide direction for services and supports to meet the needs of this complex population. Download this Final Research Study Report and more here: https://lnkd.in/eVfVBvBS #disabilityadvocate #disabilityawareness #developmentaldisabilities #intellectualdisabilities #floridadevelopmentaldisabilitiescouncil #fddc

“Who’s going to stand by if something happens to us?” Our Care Matters: Doris Tellado, Broward County In recognition of National Family Caregivers Month, we will be spotlighting the incredible stories of aging caregivers in Florida. Listen to the story of Doris Tellado, a devoted mother, and her 20-year-old son, Gabriel Jimenez, who bravely faces Larsen's Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder impacting his entire body.  "Our Care Matters" is the FDDC's initiative to share the experiences of Floridians living with developmental disabilities and those who care for them. Through this powerful video series, we aim to engage decision-makers, weaving together real stories that underscore the significance of understanding, empathy, and meaningful change. See and hear Doris’ story and other Our Care Matters stories at https://lnkd.in/eyFjFcGr. #FDDC #disabilityawareness #Disabilityadvocate #Developmentaldisabilities

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Hundreds of TJ Maxx stores are offering apparel designed and created by people on the autism spectrum as part of a new partnership. The national retailer is carrying a six-style collection from Spectrum Designs, a nonprofit in the New York City-area that trains and employs those with autism and other disabilities to make custom apparel and promotional products. Through the arrangement, TJ Maxx will showcase t-shirts with original designs by neurodiverse artists that were printed and packaged by the nonprofit’s employees, 65% of whom are on the spectrum.

The purpose of the aging caregivers’ initiative, Aging Generations’ Expectations in Developmental Disability (AGEDD), is to address the lack of appropriate supports and services for older family caregivers and their aging adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD).   This report will provide a background of the aging and developmental disabilities systems in Florida. Download this Final Research Study Report and more here: https://lnkd.in/eVfVBvBS #disabilityadvocate #disabilityawareness #developmentaldisabilities #intellectualdisabilities #floridadevelopmentaldisabilitiescouncil #fddc

“It scares me to think that if my sons did not have me as their parent, that they would probably be in homes.” Our Care Matters: Joy Ann Reece, Broward County In recognition of National Family Caregivers Month, we are spotlighting the incredible stories of aging caregivers in Florida, like Joy Ann Reece. Joy Ann, a devoted mother to Peter and Jaden, both diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, shares her heartfelt journey of caregiving and the constant concern for her sons' futures. Through our Our Care Matters series, we honor the resilience and advocacy of families across Florida who are fighting for a better tomorrow for their loved ones with developmental disabilities. These stories remind us all of the importance of support, understanding, and meaningful change. Hear Joy Ann’s story and others at https://lnkd.in/eyFjFcGr. #FDDC #disabilityawareness #Disabilityadvocate #Developmentaldisabilities #intellectualdisabilities #specialneeds #disabilityawareness #inclusion #inclusionmatters #intellectualdisability #disabilityrights

Ten Tips for Family Caregivers (and read more at the link below!) 1. Seek Support from Other Caregivers 2. Take Care of Your Own Health 3. Accept Offers of Help 4. Communicate Effectively with Healthcare Professionals 5. Take Respite Breaks 6. Watch Out for Signs of Depression 7. Be Open to New Technologies 8. Organize Medical Information 9. Ensure Legal Documents Are in Order 10. Give Yourself Credit By following these tips and prioritizing self-care, you can better balance your caregiving responsibilities with your own well-being. The above strategies provide a solid foundation for managing stress, maintaining health, and ensuring effective caregiving. Remember, seeking support and taking time for yourself are crucial components of successful caregiving. #disabilityadvocate #disabilityawareness #developmentaldisabilities #intellectualdisabilities #floridadevelopmentaldisabilitiescouncil #fddc #NationalFamilyCaregiversMonth #NFCMonth #familycaregivers

National Family Caregivers Month, celebrated each November, is a time dedicated to honoring and recognizing the millions of family caregivers across the country who devote time and energy to supporting their loved ones. 🎉💙 During this month, we have the opportunity to: 🌟 Raise awareness of the challenges faced by family caregivers 🌟 Celebrate the incredible efforts of caregivers who give selflessly 🌟 Educate caregivers on the importance of identifying themselves and embracing available resources 🌟 Increase support through community and government programs 🌟 Reduce feelings of isolation by connecting caregivers with each other Family caregivers are invaluable, and National Family Caregivers Month is our chance to show appreciation, provide resources, and foster a supportive environment for these everyday heroes. 💪✨ #disabilityadvocate #disabilityawareness #developmentaldisabilities #intellectualdisabilities #floridadevelopmentaldisabilitiescouncil #fddc #NationalFamilyCaregiversMonth #NFCMonth #familycaregivers

Election Day tips, courtesy of Disability Rights Florida: Asking for Assistance at the Polls  • ⏰ Arrive during voting hours at your polling place.  • 👥 Inform poll workers that you need assistance due to a disability or an inability to read or write.  • ✅ Choose your assistant: you can select anyone to assist you, except your employer, an officer of your union, or their agents. Alternatively, request help from two election officials.  • 📝 Forms and documentation: If you didn’t indicate your need for assistance on your voter registration, fill out a form affirming your need. The clerk can assist with this. Your chosen assistant must also complete a form stating they will help you.  • ✋ Oath requirement: Your assistant will take an oath administered by an election official.  • 🗂️ Voting assistance: Your assistant can help you read and mark the ballot, but you don’t have to disclose the nature of your disability.  • 🖥️ Independent voting option: Prefer to vote independently? Use an accessible voting machine equipped with features like headphones and keypads. Remember, if you prefer, you can use an accessible voting machine that allows you to vote independently. These machines are equipped with features like headphones and keypads for voters with visual disabilities. If you encounter any issues related to voting accessibility, you can contact the Disability Rights Florida Voting Hotline at 877-352-7337 for assistance. Learn more at https://lnkd.in/dRe3XU5e #disabilityadvocate #disabilityawareness #developmentaldisabilities #intellectualdisabilities #floridadevelopmentaldisabilitiescouncil #fddc #vote

The number of American children and adults diagnosed with autism increased 175% in roughly a decade, according to new research that shows an uptick among certain groups appears to be driving the trend. In a review of electronic health records and insurance claims data for about 12 million people between 2011 and 2022, researchers found the odds of an autism diagnosis “increased substantially.” The study published this week in the journal JAMA Network Open indicates that autism prevalence jumped from 2.3 per 1,000 to 6.3 per 1,000 during the period studied. #disabilityadvocate #disabilityawareness #developmentaldisabilities #intellectualdisabilities #floridadevelopmentaldisabilitiescouncil #fddc #autism