Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who can use AAY’s services?

Any individual approved for the Community Waiver (AKA Home and Community Based Services), and the In-Home Supports Waiver.

What is the Community Waiver and the In-Home Supports Waiver?

Oklahoma's first Home and Community-Based Waiver for people with intellectual disabilities was approved in 1988. This waiver, now known as the Community Waiver, provides services for individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions to receive care in their homes and community instead of an institution. In Oklahoma, these waivers provide a range of services, such as personal care, home health, respite care, and assistive technology, to help individuals live more independently.

The In-Home Supports Waiver (IHSW) is a Medicaid waiver program that allows individuals with intellectual disabilities to receive services and supports in their homes and communities, rather than in an institution. There are two waivers, one for children (ages 3-17) and one for adults (18+), both providing a range of services like habilitation training, occupational and physical therapy, respite, and support for living independently.

Eligibility typically requires a specific disability or condition, meeting a certain level of care (institution level-ICF/IID), and financial eligibility for Medicaid.

What services do we offer?

Daily Living Supports (DLS)

In-Home Supports (HTS)

Supported Employment

Transition Services

Transportation

Agency Companion

What is a developmental disability?

The term “developmental disability” can include several types of conditions including, but not limited to autism, Down syndrome, Asperger’s syndrome, cerebral palsy and epilepsy. Oklahoma uses the federal definition and also adds that a person must have a primary diagnosis of intellectual disabilities to be qualified for developmental disabilities services.

What is an intellectual disability?

Intellectual disabilities are generally thought to be present if an individual has an Intelligence Quotient (IQ) test score of approximately 70 or below (AAMR, 2002). Intelligence refers to a general mental capability involving the ability to reason, plan, solve problems, think abstractly, comprehend complex ideas, learn quickly and learn from experience. IQ scores are determined from standardized tests given by trained professionals.

Can a family member become the HTS?

Yes, as long as they are not legally responsible. They can live in the home and be a paid caregiver for adults.. HTS services are limited to no more than 40 hours per week, if approved, when the HTS resides in the same home as the individual receiving supports. If additional hours of service is needed, they must be provided by someone living outside the home per (OAC) 317:40-5-110.