Experience Independence and Joy: Living in the Community with a Disability in Hawaii
Living in the community can be a joyful and fulfilling experience, especially with the right support in place. In Hawaii, many people with disabilities find happiness and independence in their homes. If you’re in a nursing home or just left the hospital and feel worried about what’s next, there are many ways to help make your transition easier.
The Perks of Community Living
Imagine more freedom, higher levels of happiness, and even opportunities to earn more money through work. Living in the community doesn’t just offer these benefits; it empowers you to live your best life. Hawaii has special programs to support people with disabilities so that community living is a practical, comfortable, and exciting option.
Medicaid Waivers: The Key to Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS)/Going Home Plus Waiver Services
If you have a disability and qualify for Medicaid in Hawaii, you may be eligible for special Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) waivers. These waivers unlock a world of possibilities, including:
- Moving services: Get help transitioning from a facility to your home.
- Housing support: Find and maintain a safe, comfortable place to live.
- Day programs: Enjoy meaningful activities and build your social circle.
- Transportation assistance: Get where you need to go, hassle-free.
- Personal care: Receive daily help tailored to your needs.
With guidance from a Social Worker or Case Manager, these services can make community living easier and more accessible.
Worried About Keeping Your Benefits? Don’t Be!
If you receive Medicaid benefits while living in a long-term care facility, there’s good news: those benefits continue even if you move into the community. Medicaid provides Transition Services to make your move smoother, and you may even be eligible for more support based on your needs. Veterans, too, have options. If you get medical benefits through the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System, you can access community-based and adult day health care programs.
Have questions? Your Case Manager or the social worker at DVR is ready to guide you.
Job Hunting? You’ve Got Help!
Landing a job can feel overwhelming, but you’re not in it alone. Hawaii offers amazing resources to help you find and keep a job that suits you.
- The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR): Need help finding a job, preparing for an interview, or getting on-the-job coaching? DVR has you covered with services like reasonable accommodations and assistive technology.
- Hawaii Workforce Centers: These centers provide free resources, including computer and internet access, career counseling, job training, and up-to-date job listings.
Ready to get started? Just give them a call and open the door to new opportunities!
Understanding Your Benefits in Hawaii
- Navigating Social Security and state benefits might seem complicated, but here’s the good news: there are two main programs to know about, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both offer monthly payments to help you live comfortably.
| Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) | Supplemental Security Income (SSI) |
| SSDI is for people who used to work | SSI is for people with low income and low resources |
| SSDI amount is based on work history | SSI amount is based on income and living situation. The max benefit is $943 per month |
| SSDI beneficiaries get Medicare two years after SSDI starts | SSI beneficiaries get Medicaid |
| SSDI payments are usually deposited on a Wednesday, depending on your birth date | SSI payments are typically deposited on the first day of the month |
- Benefits Planning Query (BPQY): Get a detailed report about your benefits, work history, and Medicare information. Requesting your BPQY is as easy as calling Social Security and waiting for it to arrive.
- My Social Security Online: Create an account to check your benefits status anytime. Registration may require a visit to your local office.
- Medicare and State Benefits: Setting up a MyMedicare.gov account helps you track your Medicare coverage, including Advantage plans and Part D. For state benefits, including Medicaid, Hawaii offers 14 waiver programs to choose from, each with different eligibility and application processes. Your Case Manager can guide you through selecting the best one for your needs.
With so many services and support options available, living independently in the community has never been more within reach. Don’t hesitate—take the first step toward your brighter, more independent future today!
