Many people with developmental disabilities live in their own home or their family\u2019s home and receive daily support from staff paid by the regional center or IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services). If they live on their own, it is called supported living. These individuals have staff coming into their homes everyday, which reduces the risk of living with many others. But it is very important that the staff also follow physical distancing measures, excellent hygiene, and remain away from other people who are sick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tim Jin, a self-advocate with cerebral palsy, has been\nliving on his own with support for many years. He provides this advice for\nother self-advocates:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cGetting sick with COVID-19 is, of course, a fear, but I’m more afraid that I need to go outside and try to battle with the masses to get whatever to eat. Just in case I\u2019m stuck at home, I have over a month\u2019s worth of canned goods: beans, soup, pasta and sauce, etc. My diet will change if I need to hunker down, but it\u2019s better than starving. Luckily, I don\u2019t take any medication. If I did, I would be stocking up. I overstocked on gloves a few weeks ago. I have lots of water. I will also get some cash or cash cards so that my staff can get what I need.<\/p>
I may not go to work everyday. I\u2019ve warned my boss that if I start feeling uncomfortable being at work or traveling on the bus, I will take time off. My boss agrees. That means no paycheck, but my health is way too important in this case. I take public transportation and those buses are nasty!<\/p>
Here is what I am telling my staff:<\/p>
1. If they are sick, they shouldn\u2019t come in<\/p>
2. Social distance of 6 feet from others when you are outside<\/p>
3. Wash hands and don\u2019t touch face<\/p>
4. Get gas in car and only drive when necessary<\/p>
5. Have approximately 2 weeks of supplies (food, toilet paper and etc) and ration those items. <\/p>
6. No cooking extravagant meals using all your protein and no wasting supplies\/food.<\/p>
6. Ration money. Cut off all unnecessary costs and avoid large purchases for the moment.<\/p>
7. Have a \u201cgo bag\u201d with important documents, clothing and other essential items if you need to leave the house in a hurry.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n