End-of-life care for a loved one with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) is a sensitive and challenging topic for both professionals and families. This session will provide tools you need to navigate this journey with confidence including introducing key terms and language related to end-of-life care (e.g., MOLST, 6-Step Process, Health Care Proxy), and emphasizing the significance of including individuals with IDD in decision-making as much as possible, empowering them to be part of this critical conversation.

This presentation is designed to educate participants on two key objectives. First, audience members will gain an understanding of Future Care planning, including better awareness of planning tools and how to implement tools into a robust future care plan for individuals Aging with IDD. Second, the session will introduce Supplemental Needs Trusts, explaining their purpose and how they can be effectively utilized as planning tools to protect assets and enhance care options for individuals with special needs. By the end of the session, attendees will be better equipped to make informed decisions about care planning and trust services.

We are each connected to the world around us through the seven primary senses. Without that connection, we cannot connect to the world, function and interact with the physical environment, or even survive. Dr. Kathie Bishop will discuss each of the seven primary senses and how to use that information to modify the environment for older adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The recommendations will also help support caregivers, family and paid caregivers, as well as organizations providing residential placements create supportive environments. Many times the older adult cannot change, however, we can change the physical built environment to better meet the needs of the users.