Reports

A large proportion of the population is facing the competing demands of working and caring for a loved one. This study investigates the impact of informal caregiving, employment, and the combination of these responsibilities on the overall well-being of the caregiver. Higher well-being reported by employed caregivers compared with non-employed counterparts suggests that the benefits of employment, such as financial security and social support, can ease the burden of the caregiving role.

This updated resource, the first reflecting a ten year perspective, provides a state‐by‐state look at wages and wage trends for PHCAs, the fourth fastest‐growing occupation in the country, and a key job title within the direct‐care workforce. Prepared as a resource guide on wages for advocates and policymakers, the data underscore the problem of low wages for PHCAs, factors which contribute to workforce instability and near‐poverty incomes for this workforce.

Two studies examine the need for HCBS services and the economic profiles of adults with disabilities in MA. The main study examines the unmet needs of adults age 18-59 with disabilities, and the caregiver study focuses on the perspective of informal caregivers, i.e., their unmet needs and those of the people for whom they provide care. A detailed description of the survey methodology and exact criteria for selection into the study is included, as well as copies of the surveys.

Drawing on techniques from both educational and workforce systems, this guide introduces a comprehensive systematic approach for supporting youth with learning disabilities. It reflects a “disability rights” perspective and discusses federal rights to assistive technology, considerations in effective disclosure of a disability, and information on accessing civil rights protections in various settings. Find in-depth information, including numerous charts, tables, and tools.

States play among the most critical roles in responding to and ameliorating disability unemployment. Find examples of state policy related to disabilities, a selection of state programs and initiatives, descriptions of select federal policy, and primary source documents. Topics covered include housing, employment, community integration, long-term care, health, disability awareness and benefits counseling.

Fiscal year 2010 presented the most difficult challenge for states' financial management since the Great Depression, according to this biannual state fiscal report. With a big drop in revenues from income taxes and other sources, the states are facing their worst fiscal squeeze in decades, as they try to keep programs running for more people, but have fewer dollars to spend. Budget cuts threaten health and social service programs, including the delivery of long-term services and supports.

Medicaid finances nearly half of all LTSS spending. Review an update to existing data on Medicaid financial eligibility standards for nursing home and HCBS waiver services for older persons and adults with disability. 2009 data were obtained on state selection of optional pathways for eligibility, income and asset standards, cost-sharing and other post-eligibility financial requirements. A copy of the survey instrument and accompanying letter to state Medicaid Directors are included.

Disability rates among older Americans have declined, and the ways in which community-dwelling older people with disabilities managed their conditions have substantially changed over the 20 years covered by this survey. Among those receiving human assistance, the vast majority were helped by family caregivers, who are increasingly taking full responsibility for providing care. Find detailed analyses of the data in two research reports that provide insight into the factors driving these changes.

State-authorized health plans whose members are qualified to receive both Medicare and Medicaid benefits face administrative challenges. This study examines care management practices in four health plans that serve persons who are dually eligible. The authors describe how health plans operationalize their integrated care management approaches and identify a common framework for integrating care.

The unemployment rate of persons with a disability was well above the rate of those with no disability. Nearly one-third of workers with a disability were employed part time, compared with about one-fifth of those with no disability. Review the findings of this report, as well as a related journal article.