Lenora Riley

I assisted children approximately ages 3-11. The children were total care and required hands on assistance with all things. We started the day with a song which followed by checking and changing them if needed. After we would be programs such as tactile activities, sensory activities, reading, then the children from the class rooms would come in and talk with them, or engage in an short activity before departure. The children were checked and changed again fed a snack and then dimissed.

I worked at a Day Program but would often sign up for extra hours where I would work in one of the group homes. The ages ranged between 23-65 and older. Many were nonambulatory and nonverbal but three would use Asstive Technology to aid in communicating. One had an instrument that would placed in her mouth and she would lean forward pressing the appropriate letter on the key pad to communicate. Another would use the device implanted on the head rest of wheelchair, and he would use his head to press the keys on the device to communicate. While another person responded by using head gestures yes and no. I worked with behavioral clients as well in which they would head bang, scream, bite, and every so often swing. Most of the behaviors were self-inflicted. Other clients, I worked with required total care. The programs we help them with were meal prep, clean up, chores, and dressing is all I can think of at this point. While others needed assistance with everything but we would aid them by using hands to complete tasks. I had to write progress notes at the end of the shift and relay a verbal description of how day went and if there were any challenges.

I determine eligibility for cash, medical, and snap programs. I process applications for people in a facility transitioning back into the community. Sometimes their housing is already established but if not our program Money Follows the Person (MFP) assist in finding and securing housing. Determining eligibility for Medicaid oftentimes entails a five year review of income and assets. Upon transition, they apply for snap (food stamps.) I also answer phones by informing individuals of their case status, explaining the programs, or aiding them in applying. On occasions, I screen applications for MFP demonstration. I screen applications for the Community First Choice (CFC) program which is a self-directed program that individuals apply for seeking in home support.