Helpful Resources
Resources for accessible vehicles in Illinois
Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP): Non-profit organization that offers consumer installment loans to assist in purchasing needed assistive technology such as modified vehicles. To apply online, registration is needed: https://iatpatloans.org/Register.aspx. Contact number: 217-522-7985
IDHS Division of Developmental Disabilities: Some consumers may be eligible for funding through the Division of Developmental Disabilities for Vehicle modifications that accommodate a wheelchair or other mobility device. In a recent conversation with IDHS, we learned that this help is provided to Medicaid-eligible persons who qualify for the waiver program as determined by their regions’ IDHS Independent Service Coordinators. The funds are provided through the State of Illinois and a federal match. Once a consumer qualifies, the name is put on a “PUNS” list which stands for Priority Urgency of Need. To start the process, visit dhs.state.il.us, click on the Customers tab, the Online Tools, Office Locator, and then enter the county in the drop-down menu.
US Department of Veterans Affairs: The Automobile Adaptive Equipment (AAE) program provides adaptive equipment to allow a Veteran to safely operate and enter/exit from their personal vehicle. Veterans are trained, through the VA Driver’s Rehabilitation Program, how to safely operate their vehicle on our nation’s roadways.
The VA also provides necessary equipment such as platform wheelchair lifts, UVLs (under vehicle lifts), power door openers, lowered floors/raised roofs, raised doors, hand controls, left foot gas pedals, reduced effort and zero effort steering and braking, and digital driving systems.
Additionally, VA’s program provides reimbursements for standard equipment including, but not limited to, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, and other special equipment necessary for the safe operation of an approved vehicle.
INCIL is updating its phone and e-mail contact information for this department. For more information about VA AAE Benefits visit: www.va.gov/disability/eligibility/special-claims/automobile-allowance-adaptive-equipment/
Your local Center for Independent Living (CIL): CILs are not-for-profit organizations that help people with disabilities achieve maximum independence in work, school, housing, and every other part of life. Twenty-two centers in Illinois provide services in Advocacy · Information and Referral · Independent Living Skills · Peer Support and Mentoring · and Transition. To find the closest one to you, visit the INCIL website: https://www.incil.org/locate/ and either click on the interactive map or open the locations PDF.
Personal Assistant Training
Voices for Civil Justice
Specialty rings
For persons with arthritic finger joints or difficulty grasping and putting on a ring at all, Arthritisrings.com may have an answer.
The hinged rings open and close to allow for a good fit at the base of the finger, but still fit over a larger knuckle.
INCIL doesn’t have any connection to this
Colorado Springs, CO business. I met the artist/owner at an art fair in Springfield,
IL last fall and picked up his card to share on our site. Let us know if you try them! ~ DiAnne Crown
Photo courtesy arthritisrings.com.
As we begin the new year, it’s good to revisit important available resources. The ABLE Account tops the list today.
ABLE stands for “Achieving a Better Life Experience. Read details at www.illinoisable.com. In short, it is a savings account for persons with disability onset prior to age 26.
ABLE accounts exist to help:
- · Invest in yourself, build independence.
- · Be in control. Save for current and future expenses.
- · Preserve your federal SSI, Medicaid, and HUD benefits.
- · Save smart. Plan for your child’s future.
- · Build independence. Save more if you work.
“To all your abilities, add the ability to save.” www.illinoisable.com