Still in the shadows with their future uncertain: A report on family and individual needs for disability supports. Summary of key findings and a call

The Arc. (2011, June). Still in the shadows with their future uncertain: A report on family and individual needs for disability supports. Summary of key findings and a call to action. Washington, DC: Author.

Abstract

In 2010, The Arc conducted a national online survey, called the FINDS Survey, to obtain perceptions of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families on a range of life-span issues. These issues included education, transition, employment, transportation, community living, housing, family joys and concerns, and many more relating to various aspects of living. With more than 5,000 responses, the results have provided families, providers, researchers, legislators, and other key stakeholders with an unprecedented depth of current information as reported by families connected to I/DD.

Families from all 50 states and DC completed surveys. People with disabilities responded from 38 states and DC. Nearly 5000 caregivers responded (4,962) as did 558 people with disabilities. The vast majority of caregiver respondents were family members (95%) who are living with their family member with disabilities (75%).

Despite gains in many areas, overall the results from the FINDS survey show that our efforts as a nation have fallen short of the vision of an America where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are accepted and have the supports they need to live to their full potential in the community (abstract fromhttp://www.thearc.org/page.aspx?pid=2990).

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