Developmental Disabilities

 
Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS) is the branch of Florida Parishes Human Services Authority that assures a person-centered approach in providing the following services to individuals and families affected by developmental disabilities.  A developmental disability, as defined by Louisiana statute (R.S. 28:451):

    * Is a severe, chronic disability attributable to an intellectual or physical impairment or a combination of both;
    * Is manifested before the person reaches age twenty-two;
    * Is likely to continue indefinitely;
    * Results in substantial functional limitations in three or more of the following areas of major life activity:

        * Self-care;
        * Receptive and expressive language;
        * Learning;
        * Mobility;
        * Self-direction;
        * Capacity for independent living; and
        * Economic self-sufficiency;

    * Is not attributed solely to mental illness;
    * Reflects the person's need for a combination and sequence of special, interdisciplinary or generic care, treatment, or other services which are of lifelong or extended duration and are individually planned and coordinated; and/or
    * Is a substantial developmental delay or specific congenital or acquired condition in a person from birth through age nine which, without services and support, has a high probability of resulting in those above criteria later in life that may be considered to be a developmental disability.

FPHSA DDS is the single point of entry in the five-parish area for the following services provided to individuals with developmental disabilities:

    * Individual and family support;
    * Cash subsidy;
    * Personal support coordination;
    * Supported living;
    * ICF/DD residential placement;
    * Crisis funds; and
    * A community support team.