Older Adults and Persons with Disabilities
HPSM aims to provide all members, including older adults and people with disabilities, with access to compassionate, high-quality health care. Older adults and people with disabilities are a diverse group who make up 15% of HPSM’s overall member population. While older adults and people with disabilities are often considered a single group (described by the term “SPD”), these individuals experience a wide range of care needs. It is essential that all older people, people with disabilities, and their caretakers feel respected and acknowledged by providers so that they can lead healthy lives.
Watch our video, "Preventive Cancer Screening for People with Disabilities" now!
Definition of a disability and/or functional limitation
A disability is any condition of the body or mind that makes it more difficult for the person with the condition to do certain activities and interact with the world around them.
- Disabilities may be physical, cognitive, mental, sensory, emotional, developmental or some combination of these.
- Functional limitations are difficulties completing a variety of basic or complex activities that are associated with a health problem. Examples include vision loss, hearing loss and inability to move one’s legs.
While some disabilities may be visible, others may not be easily seen – even by providers. It is important to treat all individuals with compassion and empathy so that they feel comfortable advocating for the care they need.
Key characteristics of HPSM’s older adult and people with disabilities populations
- 17% of HPSM’s membership are older adults and/or people with disabilities
- 63% of this population lives with three or more chronic conditions
- 40% of older adults have essential hypertension
- 25% of older adults have diabetes
How HPSM determines which members are older adults and/or people with disabilities
HPSM utilizes aid codes to identify older adults and/or people with disabilities.
How HPSM can help providers working with older adults and people with disabilities
HPSM can provide:
- Assistance with arranging sign language interpreters
- Referrals to programs serving older adults and people with disabilities
- Print materials in alternative formats, including Braille
- Sources for equipment (such as assistive listening devices and accessible weight scales)
- Ongoing training and resources for using inclusive language when working with this population
Resources for older adults and people with disabilities
- [VIDEO] Preventive Cancer Screenings for People With Disabilities
- HPSM Older Adults and People with Disabilities Service Guide
- Developmental & Behavioral Services Referral Guide
- Care For Older Adults Assessment Form
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Guidelines for Accessing Medical Care for Individuals with Mobility Disabilities
- Tips for Using Person Centered Language