As chairperson of the Disability Services Advisory Board in Salem County, New Jersey, I have had a lot of conversations with members of our advisory board and others about methods to improve the communication of events, information, questions and how to make this process user friendly to the disabled and their families. Our Office of Disability Services does not have the budget or staffing to be a clearinghouse for all of the possible issues and questions that the residents of Salem County might require. Therefore, the office has asked that we direct questions to the office by telephone (856 935 7510 X 8311) or in person to 98 Market Street, Salem NJ 08079. This will allow the staff to provide personalized assistance to the specific questions and needs of the individual.
As a private citizen, I know that most people have moved to an on-line search approach when we have questions and we want to obtain this information and evaluate it before we start making appointments to meet with providers. When I have done my own searches, I realize that there isn’t a lot of information available when I search in a small county like Salem County. The more I discuss this with members of our advisory council, the more I realize we need to develop a forum that will allow the disabled and their families to pose questions and receive the benefits of the experience and research that someone that is also dealing with a similar issue has already discovered.
I am trying to create a forum through my blog and not try to answer everyone’s questions. Like our Office of Disability Services, I realize I can’t be a clearinghouse of expert information. What I can do is post information, questions and comments and ask others dealing with a specific need respond with their experiences and expertise.
Caroline James (carolinej@elderaction.org) contacted me and wrote the following: My aging parents, who are doing great for the most part (although my mother is wheelchair-bound and my father uses a walker), told me a few weeks ago that they’re ready to start the daunting task of life planning. My mom’s disability and my dad’s physical limitations have added another layer of complication to the process, and it occurred to me that a lot of people with disabilities (as well as their caregivers, if they have them) could probably benefit from a little additional information on this subject. Having said that, do you mind adding some information to your site? I’d like to add that I’m really in awe of people of all ages who are living with a disability. I understand they have a lot of challenges to overcome, but everyone I’ve ever met with a physical limitation has been truly remarkable. I appreciate all you do to support members of this community, and I appreciate you considering adding this information!to help people with disabilities with life planning?
The information below was suggested by Caroline. I am posting the information as a potential source of information that can be considered as you do your research. Please be advised that the information below needs to be reviewed in terms of your specific situation and discussed with professionals before you take specific action. In my desire to create an interactive forum, please send me your thoughts and concerns and I will add them to this site.
Abilities Not Disabilities 