How to Find Available Services for Disabled People

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 was enacted in the United States to ensure that vocational options, services and equal rights were provided to all people experiencing disabilities. Along with this monumental movement, funding was allocated to develop Centers of Independent Living that would serve as cross disability agencies, providing access to information, services and advocacy at no cost to the disabled individual. In addition to local Independent Living Centers, each state runs Vocational Rehabilitation programs to assist with returning to work, as well as Medicaid insurance for those meeting eligibility requirements.

Instructions

• 1

  Apply to your state's Social Security office in order to obtain Medicaid and Social Security Disability payments if you are in need of medical services. Medicaid helps low income disabled individuals pay for care coordination, rehabilitation, medications, hospitalization and devices such as wheelchairs or grab bars.

• 2

  Locate your local Center for Independent Living (see resources below). Each state provides independent living agencies that are specifically created to provide information to disabled consumers and their family members. Ask the center's representative for an appointment with an Independent Living Specialist, in order to discuss your options and available services. Request a transportation voucher if you have no way of getting to the Independent Living Center.

• 3

  Meet with the Independent Living Specialist and discuss any questions or needs you feel are not being met. The specialist should be able to direct you to more information about assistive devices, home modifications, access to public transportation, disability related support groups and advocacy.

• 4

  Contact your state Division of Vocational Rehabilitation if you are interested in returning to work (see resources below). Each state funds vocational rehabilitation to ensure that those experiencing disabilities can obtain training or education for new careers as well as job coaching and assistive technology.