2018 TASH Conference: Assuring Autonomy

Each year, the TASH Conference brings together a diverse community of stakeholders who gain information, learn about resources, and connect with others across the country to strengthen the disability field. This year’s conference theme, “Be Creative - Innovative Solutions for an Inclusive Life,” reminds us to think outside the box during times of uncertainty. Creativity, innovation, and determination can pave the way for meaningful and inclusive lives for people with disabilities.

Assuring Autonomy - Taking Affirmative Steps to Assure Autonomy by Avoiding Guardianship Seating Available

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Limited Capacity seats available

The presentation will describe the steps taken by a public managed care organization and a non-profit managed care organization to avoid guardianships. Every adult has the right to autonomy, to make life decisions, to direct his/her life and to be treated with dignity. Guardianship strips individuals of their legal rights. All autonomous adults need and get advice and counsel when making different life decisions. Person Centered Planning and Self-Determination require that adults with disabilities are respected and honored to make life decisions, with the support and counsel they need. These practices when done properly strengthen the circle of support around the individual with a disability, providing both the counsel and framework for preserving the individual's autonomy and decision making and renders guardianship unnecessary. This presentation will describe the policy and organization changes that were made by both a public and a private agency, built on the principles of Person Centered Planning and Self-determination, to shift control away from professional staff, licensing and guardianship agencies to people who in growing numbers have taken control of their lives and live in homes they own or rent, with housemates and support staff of their choice.

Presenters

Dohn Hoyle

Director of Public Policy, The Arc Michigan

Dohn Hoyle is the currently the Director of Public Policy (formerly the Executive Director) of The Arc of Michigan and a long-time advocate for the rights of people with disabilities. A respected leader and innovator in the disability movement, Dohn helped to rewrite the Michigan... Read More →