10 minute read

A Roadmap to Wellness

Supporting Mental and Physical Health

By Jeannie Fleming-Gifford

In a small dance studio located in Geauga County, I attended an exercise class. The inclusive class was envisioned and coordinated by NPower (npowerservices. com) founder Lori Weber, a mom with an adult daughter who has autism.

The class was facilitated by a CrossFit professional. The room was filled with energy, laughter and people of all abilities simply giving it their best in that moment. Caregivers supported and encouraged people challenged with their mobility, and we all rooted for every single person in the room to give their best effort.

All abilities can be successful and find personal growth when given the opportunity. Just as importantly, the road to wellness can have more than one lane — one for a person with special needs and another for the caregiver. Being a role model in our own health and wellness is one way in which we can also support those with special needs to stay on a path to good health.

Individuals with special needs may face more specific health challenges, but the prescription for taking care of emotional and physical health is similar as it would be for most of us.

Where to Start?

Help them get connected and involved. There are a variety of groups throughout the area that provide health and wellness programming for those with special needs, from the YMCA and local park systems, libraries and arts centers to county boards of disabilities and individual organizations like NPower Services. Each of these organizations offer programming (many times for free or reduced fees) that provides both specialized programs for those with disabilities and/or inclusive programs that can engage the whole family. The benefits of belonging to a group and participating result in positive mental and physical benefits.

Find activities for the homebound. Many programs are still offered online, from Zoom to live-streamed events. Many organizations continue to connect with those at home, offering exercise classes, music programs and more. Reduce screen time. As caregivers, sometimes screen time saves us. We need a few minutes to take care of something and/or simply rest. Plus, a little screen time is okay. However, significant screen time has shown to have an adverse effect on both physical and emotional health. Seek simple activities as an alternative to screen time.

• Depending on the skills of the individual, simple (no-mess) arts and crafts can provide engagement and even strengthen fine motor skills. Many art suppliers carry adapted art supplies (for example, check out Blick Art Supplies, dickblick.com)

• Music has been shown to have a significant positive impact on mood and overall well-being. When using music with an individual with special needs, be mindful of volume and explore various genres, using classical music or jazz to soothe and comfort or familiar music to engage and provide opportunities for singing along, which can also promote verbal skills.

• Engage in other visual stimulation, such as books. Books offer opportunities to look at breathtaking photographs (wildlife, places, buildings…you name it!) and can engage an individual in meaningful ways. Are you supporting a person who may not be able to turn the page? A slide show can provide similar engagement and though it may use a screen, it provides a different stimulus than streaming shows.

• Get outside. Fresh air and sunshine not only provide enjoyment, studies have documented their ability to fight depression. Also, a bird feeder outside the home window may provide additional stimulation and engagement.

It’s important to recognize that even with participation and connection, sometimes people with disabilities may struggle with sadness and depression. Changes in appetite, behavior, engagement and sleep patterns may be signs of depression. Documenting and communicating these changes to a healthcare professional is the first and best step in seeking additional solutions and support.

Like all journeys, the map to health and wellness is full of turns and bumps in the road, but it is an adventure worth pursuing, one day at a time.

Jeannie Fleming-Gifford, MA Family & Consumer Sciences, is a mom, blogger (“Simplicity Soup” at Northeast Ohio Parent), non-profit executive, arts advocate, writer, coffee consumer and wannabe adventurer.

Each participant in Beck Center’s Creative Arts Therapies program receives attention that is individualized with personallydesigned goals tailored to meet their needs. Staffed by board certified arts therapists and professional adapted instructors, Beck Center’s program is the first of its kind in the state of Ohio. 216-424-7634, beckcenter.org/ education/creative-arts-therapies

Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center

For over 100 years, they have provided speechlanguage, hearing, language interpreting, and deaf services. They advocate for equal access to information and communication and value all individuals’ language choices equally. Their vision is a community where every person can communicate effectively. 216-231-8787, chsc.org

Cleveland Metroparks

It’s time to explore Cleveland Metroparks. Discover trails to hike, bike, or run. Experience the wonder of the animal kingdom at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Play any of eight scenic golf courses throughout greater Cleveland. Dine on the river at Merwin’s Wharf. See the city like never before from the shores of Lake Erie. Take time to explore clevelandmetroparks.com.

Connecting for Kids

Connecting for Kids provides resources, support and community to families in Northeast Ohio who have concerns about their child. They support families who have children with mental health concerns, developmental delays and disabilities as well as those facing major life changes. They offer library programs, Resources Fairs and a Family Resource Specialist (FRS) Program. Library programs include support groups for adults, presentations by professionals as well as hands-on programs that caregivers attend with their child. The FRS program offers a CFK staff member who meets with families and assists them in navigating resources. All programs are offered free to families. 440-570-5908, connectingforkids.org with developmental disabilities of all ages to live, learn, work and play in the community. For more info on services and resources, call 216-241-8230 or visit cuyahogabdd.org.

Eisner, Gohn Group

Eisner, Gohn Group is a leading resource for risk protection strategies with life and disability insurance. Its team has the experience and expertise in these areas to craft and deliver cost effective and efficient solutions for clients. eisnergohngroup.com

Fine Arts Association

Guided by its values of equity, integrity, growth and community, The Fine Arts Association (FAA) seeks to create and discover beauty to foster a community empowered by the arts. FAA offers arts education programming in dance, music, theatre, visual arts and creative arts therapies for all ages and ability levels. In addition to arts education, The FAA Performance Department creates opportunities for members of the community to be involved in every aspect of the theatrical experience. From family musicals to performances by professional musicians, the dynamic performance season has something for everyone. 440-951-7500, fineartsassociation.org

Friendship Circle of Cleveland

Friendship Circle sparks friendship, connection and support for children of all abilities, their families, and teen volunteers. Children, teens and young adults with developmental disabilities are provided a unique opportunity to make friends and enhance their social skills through a variety of interactive programs alongside their peers. Teen volunteers are given an opportunity to experience joy and fulfillment from helping others, while also learning how they can help make the world more inclusive and accepting. Friendship Circle offers a safe place for these friendships to form organically, while also providing fun activities, field trips, community integration, holiday celebrations, family support, sensory stimulation, and so much more. Every child deserves a friend! Contact bree@friendscleveland.com, 216-3773000 ext. 1008, or visit friendscleveland.com.

I am Boundless

centered care that celebrates each individual and encourages them to become active participants in the communities where they live, work, and play. To learn more about how Boundless can help you or your loved ones, 800-409-2729, iamboundless.org

Julie Billiart Schools

With campuses in Akron, Brecksville, Lyndhurst, and Westlake, this network of K-8 private, Catholic schools educates and empowers children with learning and social differences. Students with mild to moderate autism, ADHD, dyslexia, anxiety and other learning differences thrive with JB’s small class sizes, onsite therapies, and direct intervention. Visit the website to apply, register for an open house, or learn more about its curriculum. juliebilliartschools.org

Lake County Board of DD/Deepwood

The mission of the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities/ Deepwood is to empower individuals with developmental disabilities to engage in activities that enrich their lives and contribute to their community. In the ever-changing landscape of federal and state regulations, the LCBDD’s overriding vision remains constant: to offer Lake County citizens the highest-quality, most-inclusive, collaborative, and person-centered services and supports available within resources. Working closely with other agencies and community partners, the LCBDD helps individuals and their families identify and receive services needed for a safe, healthy, and fulfilling life. Visit lakebdd.org or follow @DeepwoodLakeDD on social media.

Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities

The Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities is the community resource responsible for connecting, coordinating and funding services for individuals of all ages with developmental disabilities. It helps with everything from early intervention and education opportunities for children to employment and community inclusive living for adults so they can live, learn, work and socialize in the community. 330-725-7751, mcbdd.org

Milestones Autism Resources

Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities

The Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities proudly supports and empowers people

For more than 40 years, I Am Boundless, a statewide nonprofit, has provided people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and behavioral health challenges the freedom and opportunity to live boundless lives. They serve all ages and abilities in autism services, primary care and dental appointments, job training, counseling, and residential support. They proudly provide person-

Milestones Autism Resources improves the lives of autistic individuals, families, caregivers and professionals by educating, coaching and connecting them to resources. Providing an annual autism conference, a free helpdesk, consultations and training, and a website with more than 1,400 resources, Milestones is here to support individuals at every age, stage and ability. The groundbreaking Milestones Autism Planning Tool walks you step-by-step through everyday life issues, from early childhood through adulthood. The MAP is truly your online guide for life with easy to navigate, practical strategies and skill-building tips. It will help you plan and prioritize and can be customized to any age, ability and interest. Check it out at milestones. org/map. For more information, visit milestones. org or visit the Milestones free autism Helpdesk at milestones.org/helpdesk. To connect with a Spanish speaker, call 216-464-7600 ext. 5.

New Heights ABA

An established Northeast Ohio behavior therapy clinic serving children diagnosed with autism in Cuyahoga and surrounding counties. They provide full and half day programming in a center-based setting, utilizing principles of applied behavior analysis to target skill acquisition and behavior reduction in both 1:1 and small group settings. Warrensville Heights, 216-545-4040; Middleburg Heights, 216-321-0720. Visit newheightsaba.org

Saw Inc.

Started in 1969, the non-profit organization serves the needs of adults with developmental disabilities by offering vocational habilitation services, group employment and adult day centers with four campuses in Northeast Ohio. Learn more at sawinc.org or call 216-861-0250

Solon Community Living Solon Community Living (SCL) is a non-profit agency dedicated to providing a quality, community-accessible, sustainable housing option for adults with developmental disabilities and educational opportunities that build vital life skills and prepare homes for each resident with walkable access to the community so they can safely live, work, socialize and thrive with the support they need. Solon Community Living, 6790 Ridgecliff Drive, 440-519-1517, soloncommunityliving.org

Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities (Stark DD)

Step Forward

As the state’s designated anti-poverty agency for Cuyahoga County, Step Forward is tasked and trusted to lead the fight on the ground against poverty in the community. Step Forward helps low-income individuals and families address immediate needs and build long-term skills to transform their lives through early childhood education such as Early Head Start and Head Start, personal development like counseling and workshops, professional development including adult skills training and employment connection, and other services such as emergency assistance and the Home Energy Assistance Program. For more info, 216-589-9922, stepforwardtoday.org.

Summit Academy Schools

Summit Academy Schools represent a nonprofit 501 (C)(3) network of 23 tuition-free, community schools throughout Ohio. Summit Academy Schools educate students in grades K-12 with special education needs such as autism and ADHD. Summit Academy designs, develops and delivers educational opportunities in a therapeutic environment so everyone can learn. Their schools offer low student-to-teacher ratios, social skills training for students, compassionate staff and a safe and nurturing environment where students feel welcome and can achieve academic success. For more information visit summitacademies.org or call 1-844-549-8496.

Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board (Summit DD)

The Down Syndrome Association of Northeast Ohio

It provides support, education and advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and communities. DSANEO is the primary resource for families and communities regarding Down syndrome, where all people with Down syndrome are accepted, included and empowered. DSANEO supports individuals with Down syndrome through their lifetime with family support programs, education enrichment for toddlers to teens, life skills classes, social programs, medical outreach and advocacy. DSANEO supports more than 1,000 individuals with Down syndrome and their families throughout 16 NortheastOhio counties. 216-447-8763, dsaneo.org

Thrive Through Tennis

At Thrive, their mission is to utilize tennis as a therapeutic model. Their goal is for all participants to benefit physically, mentally, and socially from the sport of tennis. For adults and youths with different abilities, they offer both adaptive and wheelchair tennis programs. Homeschooled students learn and develop tennis skills through the Homeschool Tennis Academy. Their Parkinson’s program has an exercise session specifically designed to help rigidity, bradykinesia, coordination, and balance, followed by tennis instruction and play. The programs run at Center Court Tennis Club, 1 Eagle Valley Court, Broadview Heights, OH 44147. Please call 440-878-5600 or visit thrivetennis.org.

Stark DD helps more than 4,100 Stark county children and adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities by “supporting choices and creating opportunities.” The services provided by Stark DD help children learn to reach their full potential, help parents become more confident and support their child’s development and help adults to live comfortable, independent lives. Stark DD’s services not only provide the assistance needed to improve a life when needed, they help provide support to last a lifetime. Stark DD provides help for good. For resources at all life stages, explore our Navigation Tool at starkddnav.org. 330-477-5200, starkdd.org

Summit DD is the resource that makes meaningful connections for more than 5,000 children, teens and adults with developmental disabilities in Summit County. Those connections become part of a person’s journey. With each connection, a person’s network grows, helping them on a path to becoming their own strongest advocate. Summit DD believes that people have the right to direct their own journey. Its service coordinators are here to assist each person in creating a self-directed plan to meet their goals and build a team around them to help set them up for success.

330-634-8000, summitdd.org

1,500 PLUS PROVIDERS AND

IN NORTHEAST OHIO.

UCP of Greater Cleveland

UCP of Greater Cleveland is a nonprofit services agency whose mission is to empower children and adults with disabilities to advance their independence, productivity and inclusion in the community. Their mission guides the development, delivery and enhancement of programs and services. While the mission centers on the individual, programs take into consideration the larger picture that involves family and community support, public awareness, individual advocacy and overall personal growth of those we serve. UCP of Greater Cleveland, Iris S. & Bert L. Wolstein Center 10011 Euclid Avenue. Cleveland,216-791-8363, ucpcleveland.org

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