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Moving Out of State Institutions and Into Communities
The number of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) living in large state institutions has declined over the decades. Most people with IDD now live with family or in small community homes where they are happier and have more control over their lives.
This Data Byte tracks deinstitutionalization from 1998 to 2020.
Having Real Choice in My Life
Rick Meives (pictured at right with his art teacher) is an autistic artist with Down syndrome who lives with his family. His circle of support includes family, friends, and staff, but he directs his own services. Besides art, he enjoys bowling, swimming, playing music, and talking to friends.
“I hope I always live where I have choices,” he writes in Impact. “Self-direction has given me years of love from a girlfriend… friends who mean the world to me, and a life I love. I want that until I die.”
Understanding Disability through a Data Lens
It’s before lunch, and Anna Bolgrien’s (MNLEND 2020-21) work for the day has already touched on mental health, HIV, and water quality. As a senior research scientist and project manager for the University of Minnesota’s Institute of Social Research and Data Innovation, Bolgrien relishes the breadth of data management projects on her plate.
