Written By: Susan Carter, Director of Program Operations
In early March, Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council awarded a grant to Neuro-Inclusive Housing Solutions, LLC to conduct a study about housing options for individuals with IDD who have high support needs. This additional study was based on recommendations from the Council-funded Intentional Communities Research Study and a statewide survey conducted by the Inclusive Housing Coalition.
Results from family caregivers indicated that most respondents representing people with IDD with a Supports Intensity Scale (SIS) level of 5 or higher live with primary caregivers who are providing home-based care. Anecdotal feedback from parents suggests that current options fail to meet the needs or preferences of individuals with high support requirements.
The goal of the study is to identify the attributes of residential solutions required to support individuals with 24/7 care needs, as preferred by families and self-advocates. Additionally, the study will provide concept plans and policy recommendations to address identified disparities. The study includes:
- A Literature Review to explore housing and support models for individuals with high support needs.
- IHC Website: Presentation and survey on residential needs, preferences, and barriers.
- Community Focus Groups: Virtual sessions with self-advocates and family caregivers (urban, suburban, and rural) to develop concept plans.
- Design: Development of architectural renderings and support frameworks based on feedback.
- Agency Feedback: Meetings with PASAs, HCPF staff, and providers to identify policy and funding barriers.
- A final report and plain-language summary with recommendations.
The research phase of the Neuro-Inclusive Housing High Needs Study is advancing, and we are pleased to announce that focus groups are scheduled to begin in late April. These focus groups are a critical component of the study, designed to gather qualitative, in-depth insights from people with high neuro-inclusive housing needs, their families, caregivers, and service providers. The input collected will directly inform recommendations for developing more supportive and inclusive housing models across the state.We strongly encourage anyone interested in participating, learning more about the study’s objectives, or sharing their valuable perspective to get involved. Full details, including registering for a focus group, can be found on the Inclusive Housing Coalition website.
