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T H E C A R E G I V E R ’ S T O O L K I T
CHAPTER 6
DISABILITIES
Caring for Those with Disabilities
Overview
In the US, there are over 52 million caregivers who provide care to adults 18 years and older with
a disability or chronic illness. Many caregivers are family members or friends who assist affected
individuals with activities of daily living, monitoring health, managing financial affairs and overall
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Our hope is to ease your mind by providing you with information and resources to guide you in
making informed decisions about the care of your loved one.
Entitlement vs. Eligibility
Entitlement to programs and services applies
to those diagnosed with a disability prior to the
age of 18. Eligibility applies to those diagnosed
after the age of 18; it means that the individual is
not entitled to services, but must meet eligibility
requirements to obtain services. Most often the
requirements apply to those services supported
by federal, state, and/or local funds. One support
service that is most often overlooked is from
organizations dedicated to a specific disability,
such as the Parkinson’s Foundation, the National
Multiple Sclerosis Society Maryland Chapter, or
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these organizations offer resources, services, and
limited funding to assist with an individual’s care.
Accessing Services
Persons Under 18 Years of Age:
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Consult with a pediatrician or family physician regarding the child’s diagnosis to determine
medical, health, safety, and therapeutic needs.
☐
The age of the child will determine where to begin with community services
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– 3-5 years: Harford County Public Schools Early Intervention Program, 410-588-5246
– 5-21 years*:
• Harford County Public Schools Special Education Services, 410-588-5246
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• Department of Social Services, Family Services, 410-836-4700
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disability, visual and/or hearing impairment should apply to the Developmental Disability
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Where to Begin
It depends on the age of the individual at the
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as having a disability prior to the age of 18
would most likely begin receiving services in
school. These services would be based on
identified needs. In some cases, services are
supplemented by agencies within the community
and may need to continue into the adult years.
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disability after the age of 18 would be eligible for
services based upon their diagnosis, identified
needs, level of care, and specific service
program requirements. In planning for services,
it may mean bringing multiple programs together
to build a plan of care needed for the individual.
Harford County Department
of Community Services
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