Glossary
A
accommodation
Change or adjustment that helps meet a person’s individual needs, such as allowing the use of a service animal in a pet-free building.
E
executive functions
A group of top-down mental processes used when concentrating, focusing attention, holding information in working memory and mentally working with the information. Higher order executive functions include reasoning, problem solving and planning.
H
home and community-based services
A Medicaid waiver program that allows states to offer services to people with disabilities who don’t qualify for Medicaid. HCBS pays for group homes and independent living.
L
life partner
A member of a couple in a romantic relationship that is regarded as permanent.
M
Medicaid
A U.S. government program that provides health coverage to many Americans, including eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults and people with disabilities. Medicaid is managed by each state, and each state sets its own program guidelines.
Medicare
The U.S. federal health insurance program for Americans who are 65 or older, as well as certain young people with disabilities. Different parts of Medicare help cover specific services.
modification
A structural change made to an existing living space to support a person with a disability, such as the installation of a ramp or specific alarm system.
S
scan
An assessment of how a housing environment fits a person’s needs.
self-advocacy
Being able to communicate your needs and preferences to others. It includes understanding your needs and legal rights, knowing what help and support you need, and communicating your needs to others.
supports
Tools or services that help people with autism in their daily lives. Examples include visual schedules, communication devices, home health aides and job coaches.
