Expanding Safety and Independence for Adults with IDD and Older Adults
Fall 2024 is the beginning of the second year of the Enabling Technology Program, JSDD: Life | Home | Tech. We are thrilled to share the significant milestones the team has achieved and the exciting developments ahead. This program, originally launched to support the safety and independence of adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), has now expanded to include older adults in our community, thanks to the generous support of two additional grants from the Grotta Fund for Older Adults and The Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey.
Pictured is the team behind JSDD: Life | Home | Tech. From left to right:
Susan Nasberg-Abrams, Aubrie George, Randee Lesser, Jessica Goldstein, Tatiana Copeland.
A Year of Growth and Expansion
In the first year, the program successfully implemented various technology devices in JSDD Homes, such as task-prompting tools, safe cooking appliances, and biometric locks. These innovations empowered residents to live more independently, helping them reach their personal goals with enhanced safety and increased participation in their daily lives. Building on this success, the focus in the second year is to broaden the impact on the wider community.
The new grants have been pivotal in enabling JSDD to plan and roll out the program and serve a more diverse population, including older adults who are aging in place. The integration of these groups has brought new challenges and opportunities, as we adapt our technology solutions to meet the unique needs of both adults with IDD and older adults.
Adapting to the Needs of Older Adults
As JSDD reaches out to older adults, the team is working diligently to ensure that the technology we recommend is accessible, user-friendly, and tailored to their specific needs. This intention is the definition of the “person-centered approach” JSDD: Life | Home | Tech has implemented. For example, medication management tools, and voice-activated devices that help older adults maintain their independence while ensuring their safety. These technologies not only provide peace of mind for individuals but also for their families and caregivers.
JSDD has partnered with Jewish Community Housing Corporation (JCHC), JESPY House and Jewish Family Services (JFS) to collaborate and better understand the specific challenges faced by older adults, such as mobility issues, memory loss, and social isolation, we have been able to customize our approach to offer solutions that genuinely enhance their quality of life.
One of JCHC’s buildings is now home to the JSDD: Life | Home | Tech “Demo Apartment” which showcases many of the different forms of enabling technology.
Continuing Support for Adults with IDD
While expanding the program, the original mission to support adults with IDD is never far from mind. The additional funding has allowed the program to enhance the existing technology offerings and introduce new tools that address emerging needs. These innovations have proven instrumental in fostering greater independence and confidence among participants.
Moreover, training and support services have been expanded. The LHT team has participated in various training and certification programs to continue professional growth and expertise.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Enabling Technology Program
Moving forward, the vision for JSDD: Life | Home | Tech continues to grow on the solid foundation laid out this past year. The future involves exploring new technologies, to further enhance the lives of those we serve.
The next phase will focus on deepening partnerships with local organizations. Collaboration will allow the program to be innovative and expand offerings to ensure that more individuals benefit from the life-changing potential of enabling technology.
The pilot year of JSDD: Life | Home | Tech has been a period of significant growth and impact. With the support of our new grantors and the dedication of the LHT team, there is excitement in continuing this journey: empowering more adults with IDD and older adults to live safely and independently. The future is bright, and we are committed to making a lasting difference in our community.