Finding Group Homes for Adults with Physical Disabilities in Florida & New York

Locating appropriate residential care requires systematic research.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Identify State Agencies:
   • FL: Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) – apd.myflorida.com
   • NY: Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) – opwdd.ny.gov
2. Contact Advocacy Groups: FL Developmental Disabilities Council; NYSARC (now AHRC).
3. Use Directories: Eldercare Locator (eldercare.acl.gov), Caring.com, state-specific provider lists.
4. Define Needs: Level of care (ADL assistance, skilled nursing), medical support, location, accessibility, social programs, cost/funding (Medicaid waiver, private pay).
5. Shortlist & Visit: Tour facilities; assess cleanliness, staff ratios, resident engagement, safety features, meal quality, transportation.
6. Verify Licensing:
   • FL: Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) facility search.
   • NY: NYS Department of Health nursing home/ACF profiles.
7. Seek Referrals: Social workers, hospital discharge planners, disability attorneys.
8. Compare & Decide: Match needs, preferences, budget; involve the individual maximally.

Funding Note

Medicaid HCBS waivers (FL: iBudget; NY: OPWDD waivers) fund group homes for eligible individuals. Application takes months—start early.