The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) is continuing to accept written comments about the needs of people with developmental disabilities in all stages of life: Childhood/Education; Adulthood,Aging, and Caregiver/Family Supports. The deadline for comment has been extended to Friday March 4, 2011. The comments will be used to shape ADD's understanding of people's needs and to develop its strategic plan for people with developmental disabilities. ADD also works with other agencies and with Congress.

Go to www.envision2010.net/comment_submit.php to submit your comments. The questions for each life stage are:

Childhood (0-21):

How do we ensure that each child with a developmental disability will live a healthy and happy life in a loving family home; fully participate in all of the experiences of childhood in inclusive, welcoming communities; be empowered to advocate for themselves; and successfully graduate from school prepared for college or a career of their choosing?

Adulthood (21-60):

In the future, what will be the most important contributing factors to ensuring that adults with developmental disabilities achieve equality of opportunity, independent living, economic self-sufficiency and full participation as valued members of inclusive, integrated communities?


Which critical issues must be prioritized - access to healthcare, employment, supports and services, technology, housing, transportation, other issues?

Aging (60-end of life):

Aging concerns affect us all. The number of adults with developmental disabilities age 60 years and older is projected to nearly double from 642,000 (2000) to 1.2 million (2030). What can we do to empower older individuals with developmental disabilities to remain in their own homes with a high quality of life, to maintain independence and good health for as long as possible, and to enjoy community and family relationships through the end of life?

Supports from families, caregivers, professionals and other allies:

Over 75% of people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities with families, often with aging parents. Direct support workers usually earn very low wages. Families and caregivers often struggle to access any level of formal support at all. How can we address the future caregiving and support challenges of communities, families, and the allies who care about people with developmental disabilities?


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