Wellness Toolkit
In its effort to provide comprehensive care to developmentally disabled Californians, the Department of Developmental Services (“DDS”) recently launched the DDS Wellness Toolkit. In general, this online resource serves as a hub for self-advocates, direct support professionals, vendors, and other care providers. More specifically, the DDS Wellness Toolkit provides vital, easy-to-access information relevant to everyone involved in caring for those with developmental disabilities.
DDS Wellness Toolkit
The DDS Wellness Toolkit is available online for free. Serving as a library of resources, the Toolkit provides information for the following groups of people:
- Self-Advocates: This section of the toolkit is designed for those living with some form of developmental disability who take a more proactive role in their care. This section includes information on a broad range of health, safety, and wellness topics, including physical health, mental health, preventive wellness, and a number of day-to-day skills.
- Direct Support Professionals: A Direct Support Professional (“DSP”) works directly with developmentally disabled individuals. To serve this group of care providers, the wellness toolkit provides information on topics including preventing falls, managing patient medication, and basic medical care.
- Vendors and Other Care Providers: The wellness toolkit also has resources for vendors and other care providers. Specifically, these materials focus on issues related to client health, safety, and everyday life skills.
FAQ
Q: Who can use the DDS wellness toolkit?
A: The Wellness Toolkit is available online and is free of charge. While the Toolkit is available to everyone, the resources contained in the toolkit have been tailored for individuals with developmental disabilities, their families, and service providers.
Q: How do I access the Wellness Toolkit?
A: The toolkit is available online through the California DDS website. You can also request Toolkit resources through your regional DDS center.
Q: Does the Wellness Toolkit replace medical care?
A: No, the Wellness Toolkit is not meant to replace care. Rather, it complements medical care by offering easy-to-access information and resources to enhance the care you or your loved one receives through DDS.