Services for People with Developmental Disabilities

Abbott House operates one Intermediate Care Facility (ICF) and 15 Individualized Residential Alternatives (IRA) that over 100 persons with developmental disabilities call home. But no matter which residence a consumer lives in, there is round the clock care and supervision from highly trained and dedicated staff. The safety of our consumers is our number one goal. With the support of our medical team, each person in this program receives the time, energy and respect needed to reach their fullest potential.

In addition to residential services, Abbott House offers a substantial Self-Advocacy program. Self-Advocacy is about people with disabilities speaking up for themselves. It means that although a person with a disability may call upon the support of others, the individual is entitled to be in control of their own resources and how they are directed. It is about having the right to make life decisions without undue influence or control. This program teaches people what their rights and responsibilities are; how to ensure their rights are respected; and, what actions to take if their rights or those of someone else have been violated. Restoring control through informed decision-making builds self-confidence and enriches the lives of those participating in the program.

The Special Olympics brings residents from different homes together and helps to create and foster meaningful relationships. This expansion of their social circle is crucial to personal development and bolsters confidence and social interaction. Players who have partook in the program expressed to staff that they feel a sense of belonging because they are able to connect with peers who face similar difficulties in life. As an agency, we have many responsibilities for those in our care and feel very strongly that one of those is to empower persons with developmental disabilities.

Two Day Habilitation programs provide developmentally disabled individuals in the care of Abbott House with an array of exciting, diverse opportunities encompassing recreational activities, social events and community volunteerism.