State‑Operated Developmental Centers
The California Department of Developmental Services (“DDS”) exists to provide care, services, and resources to Californians with developmental disabilities, as well as their families. Across all DDS services and programs, the fundamental focus is pairing individuals with the resources they need to to thrive. In particular, California DDS has a strong preference for care that empowers developmentally disabled individuals to live as independently as possible. Whenever possible, DDS tries to provide care directly in the home or, at the very least, in the community where individuals already live. However, there are some instances in which more structured institutional care is the best option. To serve people who require this level of care, California DDS maintains a handful of state-operated developmental centers.
Developmental Centers California DDS
Today, DDS operates one developmental center, one community facilities, and a number of smaller, more narrowly focused care facilities. These facilities are spread out across the state. In general, each of these state-operated developmental centers provides 24-hour care and support for individuals whose developmental needs may require more structured care.
Services Provided by State-Operated Developmental Centers
Services Provided in Developmental Centers
The developmental centers California DDS oversees include the following facilities:
- Porterville Developmental Center: acute crisis care units for longer-term stays.
- Fairview Developmental Center: community-based crisis homes for shorter stays.
- Community Crisis Homes: residential facilities designed to be less restrictive than other forms of institutional care.
- Stabilization Training Assistance Reintegration Homes (STAR): community-based crisis homes offering temporary institutional care.
Regardless of the type of state-operated developmental center a person may require, all such facilities share the same foundation of care including:
- 24-Hour Medical Care: On-site physicians, nurses, and health professionals address both routine and complex medical needs.
- Behavioral and Mental Health Support: Specialized staff provide therapies and interventions for individuals with significant behavioral challenges.
- Education and Training: Programs focus on communication skills, daily living skills, and vocational training to promote independence where possible.
- Rehabilitation Services: Physical, occupational, and speech therapy are available to support development and health.
- Recreational and Social Activities: Residents have access to structured programs that encourage socialization and engagement.
As with everything else involving the DDS, individualized care is the focus. Care at a state-operated developmental center aims to help each individual achieve the goals established in their Individual Program Plan (“IPP”).
Focus on Home and Community-Based Care
In previous decades there were many more state-operated developmental centers than there are now. That’s primarily because there has been a marked shift toward keeping developmentally disabled individuals with their families and communities, as opposed to institutionalizing individuals. As a result, many state-operated developmental centers have closed.
Despite this, the DDS recognizes that there are some individuals who can best be cared for in a more structured, institutional setting. That’s why California maintains the state-operated facilities that are currently open.
Today, California DDS aims to strike a balance between focusing on home and community-based care while still retaining some institutional facilities for those who need them. Ultimately, the goal is to synthesize the two by helping individuals transition from state-operated developmental centers back to home and community-based care whenever possible. No matter what, the developmental centers California DDS operates are focused on providing individualized care tailored to each person’s unique needs and goals.
FAQ
Q: How many developmental centers are still operating in California?
While the number of state-operated developmental centers has certainly declined in recent years, the state maintains a handful of operations for those who require more institutional care.
Q: Who qualifies to live in a developmental center?
Eligibility is determined by DDS and regional centers. In general, eligibility to live in a state-operated developmental center is limited to individuals with severe medical or behavioral needs that cannot be met elsewhere.
Q: How can I find out if my loved one is eligible?
A: Talk to your regional center for detailed information regarding eligibility for a state-operated developmental center.
Q: Can residents transition from developmental centers to community living?
A: Yes. DDS prioritizes community placements whenever it is safe and appropriate. In fact, many residents successfully transition with proper planning and support.
Q: Are families involved in care planning even when a person is in a state-operated developmental center?
A: Yes. Regardless of the type of care a person receives, the DDS encourages family to participate as actively as possible in the care their loved one receives.
Q: Are developmental centers permanent placements?
A: Not always. While some individuals require long-term care, others may transition to less restrictive environments over time. DDS tries to match each individual with the care they need, whether that means living permanently in a care facility permanently or eventually transitioning to community based care.