A family-based organization for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Aging

People with intellectual and other developmental disabilities have a need for advocacy, which spans a lifetime. Meeting their unique needs as individuals, affording them the opportunity to age with dignity and respect, and providing them the specialized and quality services they will require as they age will allow individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities to remain a vital part of their community.

It is The Arc New York’s position that:

  • People with intellectual and other developmental disabilities have the right to live in their community through their entire life span in an appropriate and supportive residential option connected with and supported by family, friends, advocates and natural supports. 
  • People with intellectual and other developmental disabilities have the right to be supported by staff with appropriate training, skills and competencies necessary to support them throughout their life span. 
  • People with intellectual and other developmental disabilities have the right to be supported by service providers who exercise moral and ethical responsibility as they advocate for appropriate, competent and caring services in the community throughout the individual’s life span. 
  • People with intellectual and other developmental disabilities should have the respect of their supporting provider organization through clear policies and planning to provide guidance in developing services, supports, physical space and resources throughout the life span of the individual. 
  • People with intellectual and other developmental disabilities have the right to be active participants in developing an individualized personal plan that guides the service provider, staff, family and advocates and reflects personal life choices, including health, wellness and end-of-life decisions. 
  • Appropriate services developed by staff with professional expertise must be provided for people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities who are aging that meet their unique needs in every aspect of their lives.
     

 

Adopted October 25, 2003 at the NYSARC, Inc. Delegate Assembly
Adopted with Amendments October 27, 2006 at NYSARC, Inc. Delegate Assembly
Adopted with Amendments October 19, 2007 at NYSARC, Inc. Delegate Assembly
Adopted with Amendments October 15, 2010 at NYSARC, Inc. Delegate Assembly
Adopted with Amendments October 24, 2015 at NYSARC, Inc. Delegate Assembly