Living independently with a disability can be expensive. From health care to accessibility modifications, assistive technology and housing, accomplishing independent living goals brings additional costs.

This issue features stories of the ways that Centers for Independent Living have successfully worked with consumers and others to reduce expenses that could have created barriers to living independently. The results? More Virginians with disabilities maintaining and increasing their independence.

After learning that the annual cost of her medications would be $7,585, a Harrisonburg woman reached out to Valley Associates for Independent Living (VAIL) with questions about whether there were ways to reduce costs. After researching and discussing alternatives with staff there, she determined that another Medicare prescription drug plan might be more appropriate. As a result of VAIL’s assistance, she was able to change plans which reduced the annual cost of her medication and saved over $5,000.

Clinch Independent Living Services (CILS) in Grundy collaborated with two consumers and local faith-based organizations to provide costly ramps so that the consumers could enter and exit their homes safely. One consumer was transitioning back to her home from a rehabilitation facility after a stroke. Another was using a ramp at home that was too steep and lacked handrails, causing him to flip his wheelchair over. CILS was able to help provide a 60’ and 24’ ramp to the consumers, respectively. 

Blue Ridge Independent Living Center (BRILC) is part of Healthy Homes Roanoke, a partnership among the city’s Housing and Urban Development Community Services Division and Office of Sustainability along with several other organizations. Applications will soon be available for families who are interested and eligible for their local Healthy Homes Program. Read full news article here.