Whispp, founded by Joris Castermans, introduces an innovative solution for individuals with voice impairments by utilizing language-independent AI technology. This technology enables the conversion of whispered speech and vocal cord impaired speech into a clear and natural sounding voice, in real-time and without delays.
Traditional methods rely on speech-to-text (STT) and text-to-speech (TTS) conversions, resulting in high latency. In contrast, Whispp’s audio-to-audio AI approach ensures instantaneous communication, overcoming barriers to natural conversation.
Whispp can help to address the needs of approximately 300 million people worldwide with voice impairments, including those with ALS, MS, stroke, and Parkinson’s Disease. It offers a lifeline to individuals who have lost their voice but retain good articulation.
Additionally, Whispp capitalizes on the therapeutic benefits of whispering for managing certain voice and speech disorders. For example, individuals who stutter severely can experience an 85% reduction in stuttering frequency when whispering. Similarly, those with conditions like Spasmodic Dysphonia or Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis find relief and increased fluency through whispering.
Photo Credit: WHISPP
The Whispp app facilitates seamless communication, allowing users to connect with anyone, regardless of whether the recipient has downloaded the app. This accessibility fosters meaningful connections and inclusivity among friends and family.
Whispp represents a significant advancement in assistive communication technology, empowering individuals with voice impairments to express themselves freely and engage in natural conversations.
For more information, check out the WHISPP website here.
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Indiana Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch and three lawmakers are asking the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) to pause cuts to a program that helps parents take care of their medically vulnerable children. They made this request during a meeting of the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Task Force. FSSA had planned to reduce payments to parents who provide care, blaming a $1 billion budget gap in Medicaid. The issue is causing tension as families worry about the impact on their children’s healthcare.
Seeking Clarity
During the meeting, Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch said that there’s talk of making changes, but no one has shown any clear data to support these changes. She urged FSSA to delay implementing the program cuts until they can provide more answers and called on the General Assembly to help.
Growth of Care Programs
Kelly Mitchell, who works at FSSA, talked about how they’ve seen more people using these services, especially for children. They found that the costs have gone up from $20 million to $120 million between July 2020 and December 2023. But the problem isn’t just more people using these services; it’s also due to the increase in how much they pay caregivers, which jumped from $60 million to over $100 million in a short time.
Concerns and Pushback
FSSA wants to switch to a different way of paying caregivers called “structured family caregiving” instead of what they currently do. However, some people, like Lt. Gov. Crouch and others, are worried that this new method won’t pay parents enough. They’re concerned that families might struggle to find nurses to help, so they’ve been relying on these payments.
Families in Crisis
Several families are upset about these changes. They gathered at a meeting and said they might have to get divorced or change their legal status to keep getting help for their kids. Families are worried that they won’t be able to afford the extra costs of taking care of their children without these payments.
Read the original article by Indiana Capital Chronicle at DailyJournal.net.
Financial Resources for Families
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Financial resources are available to support families caring for children with disabilities. These resources can help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with medical care and other related expenses:
Medicaid Waivers: Medicaid provides Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers that can offer financial assistance to families. These waivers cover various support services like respite care, personal care, and therapies.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI is a federal program that provides financial assistance to children with disabilities. Eligible families can receive monthly payments to help with the costs of care.
State Programs: Many states offer additional programs and grants to support families caring for children with disabilities. These programs can help cover specific needs and services.
Aid and Attendance Benefits program provides monthly payments in addition to a monthly VA pension for qualified veterans and survivors. These benefits help cover the costs of a caregiver, who may be a family member. Find the VA pension management center in your area to see if you qualify.
Nonprofit Organizations: Several nonprofit organizations offer financial assistance, support, and information to families of children with disabilities. These organizations may provide grants, scholarships, or other forms of financial aid.
The debate over Medicaid cuts for families of children with disabilities is a complicated issue. People want to make sure the budget is balanced, but they also want to make sure that sick kids get the care they need. Families, lawmakers, and advocates are working together to find a solution that keeps everyone’s needs in mind. Additionally, families should explore available financial resources to help them navigate the challenges of caring for children with disabilities and ensure they receive the necessary support.
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The Disability Equality Index® marks its 10th year in 2024 with a significant expansion beyond the United States. This expansion is in response to the rising demand for effective tools to evaluate disability inclusion efforts in global corporations. Administered by Disability:IN, the index now includes seven new countries: Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, Japan, the Philippines, and the United Kingdom.
Selection Process:
The new countries were chosen based on outcomes from a two-year global pilot program involving 98 companies throughout 66 countries. This selection process ensured that countries were chosen to meet demand, while also providing global representation across diverse geographic regions and varying stages of economic and social development.
Registration for the 2024 Disability Equality Index is now open, accepting submissions until April 12 for all eight countries, including the United States.
Remarkable Growth in the U.S.:
Over the years, the Disability Equality Index has witnessed substantial growth in the United States. It has evolved from having 80 participating companies in 2015 to 485 participants in 2023. Today, 70% of the U.S. Fortune 100 companies and nearly half of the Fortune 500 trust this objective, comprehensive, and confidential mechanism for evaluating their corporate disability inclusive practices and policies.
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Growing Interest Globally
The two-year global pilot program revealed a growing interest from stakeholders in multinational companies who witnessed the benefits of using the Disability Equality Index in the United States. Increasingly, financial and social materiality issues are driving corporations to examine and expand their efforts around disability inclusion. The continuously changing worldwide legislative environment, emerging regulations, and persuasive financial benefits are sparking enthusiasm for resources such as the Disability Equality Index.
As per the “Disability Inclusion Imperative,” a research report conducted by Accenture and Disability:IN in November 2023, companies that excel in disability inclusion over a five-year span have experienced impressive business growth. These organizations have seen their revenue increase by 1.6 times, net income grow by 2.6 times, and economic profit double when compared to their peers.
The expansion of the Disability Equality Index® in 2024 signifies a crucial step towards promoting disability inclusion on a global scale. With the inclusion of new countries and the compelling business case for disability inclusion, this initiative is set to drive positive change in multinational corporations worldwide.
Roanoke College is set to introduce a groundbreaking opportunity for its students – a Disability Studies degree program.
For years, both faculty members and students at Roanoke College have dedicated their efforts to implementing various courses and initiatives aimed at promoting disability programs. Through a gradual and persistent process, they have achieved their goal, and the college is now poised to offer a comprehensive Disability Studies major.
The students at Roanoke College are not content with merely pursuing their studies; they are driven by a passion for advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities and striving to enhance their quality of life within a more inclusive society. The journey towards this noble objective begins with education. Notably, Roanoke College’s disability initiatives, including MAPLE’S Kids and Toy Like Me, have played a pivotal role in laying the foundation for the establishment of a concentration in Disability Studies, which was successfully launched last year.
Impact on Students
This initiative has made a profound impact on students who have experienced a transformative shift in their perspectives on life. In addition to the concentration, Roanoke College is taking a significant step forward by offering a brand-new Disability Studies Major and Minor, commencing in August. This move reflects the college’s unwavering commitment to fostering the growth and development of Disability Studies within its academic framework.
Roanoke College’s dedication to supporting Disability Studies is evident through these new offerings, which will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of this vital field. To explore the full range of Disability Studies programs and offerings at Roanoke College, please visit their official website at roanoke.edu/academics/majors/disability_studies.
Pursuing a degree in Disability Studies offers an array of benefits that extend far beyond the classroom. It equips individuals with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those with disabilities and empowers them to advocate for positive change. Graduates with a Disability Studies degree are well-prepared to contribute to creating a more inclusive and accessible world, whether through policy development, community engagement, or support services.
Additionally, this field opens doors to diverse career opportunities in fields such as healthcare, education, social work, and advocacy organizations. Ultimately, a Disability Studies degree not only enriches one’s knowledge but also provides the tools and perspective to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities, fostering a more equitable and inclusive society for all.
In a groundbreaking move, Johns Hopkins University has appointed Nathan R. Stenberg as its first Director of Disability, Culture, and Inclusion. With a personal journey that embodies resilience and a professional background deeply rooted in disability advocacy, Stenberg is poised to lead the charge in developing a comprehensive vision for disability inclusion throughout the university.
A Journey of Resilience and Advocacy
Hailing from a humble background as a first-generation, developmentally disabled college graduate from rural Minnesota, Stenberg brings a unique perspective to his new role. Over the years, he has tirelessly championed the rights of the disability community through a multifaceted approach that includes public speaking, policy work, research, consulting, and even the performing arts. In addition to his responsibilities at Johns Hopkins, Stenberg actively participates in disability rights advocacy organizations, such as the National Museum of Disability History & Culture steering committee and the Pennhurst Memorial and Preservation Alliance board of directors.
A Facilitator and Collaborator
Stenberg’s philosophy as he embarks on his mission within the Office of Diversity and Inclusion at Johns Hopkins is clear: he sees himself as a facilitator and collaborator, emphasizing the importance of genuine human connections in fostering disability inclusion. In an age of faceless email communication, he believes that listening is paramount to the success of his work. Operating within a decentralized institution like Johns Hopkins, Stenberg’s goal is to unite individuals, encourage collaboration, and assess existing processes to drive forward disability inclusion initiatives. His vision is to build upon the groundwork already laid, ensuring it serves as a sturdy foundation for broader, more encompassing endeavors.
A Diverse Path to Leadership
The diversity of Stenberg’s life experiences is evident in the many hats he has worn throughout his journey. From his early days as a farmhand and landscaper to his time working in various restaurants, his career path has been diverse and rich. Beyond this, he has trained as a musician, sound engineer, and personal trainer. His transition into public speaking and, more recently, film making has allowed him to make his research more accessible to the general public. Prior to his tenure at Johns Hopkins, he immersed himself in the field of disability policy in Washington, D.C., exploring issues that extend beyond well-known disability legislation.
In discussing what Johns Hopkins is already doing to promote inclusivity, Stenberg highlights the creation of his role as a significant step forward. He commends the institution for its introspection and acknowledgment that it had not fully lived up to its stated values regarding the inclusion of under served groups, including the disability community. He praises Johns Hopkins for putting resources behind its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Stenberg believes that this commitment offers an opportunity to dream big and work together to make Johns Hopkins a global leader in disability equity, innovation, and culture.
From all of us at AmeriDisability, we congratulate Nathan on his new position. We look forward to witnessing the positive changes he will bring to Johns Hopkins University and the broader disability community. Cheers to his new role and the transformative impact it will have!
Tax Day was introduced in 1913 when the Sixteenth Amendment was ratified. And while the deadline to submit tax returns hasn’t changed much since 1955 — when April 15 became known as Tax Day — opportunities for tax benefits have changed. People with disabilities in the United States may be eligible for various tax deductions and credits to help offset the costs associated with their condition. First, the following tax tips and resources may be helpful for some people within the disability community. Next, additional tips focused on maximizing tax benefits for inclusive businesses are also suggested.
Maximizing Tax Benefits for Individuals with Disabilities
Medical Expense Deduction: Individuals with disabilities may be able to deduct certain medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of their adjusted gross income. This includes
expenses for equipment, therapy and transportation to and from medical appointments.
Disability Income Exclusion: If you receive income from a disability policy that you paid for yourself, you may be able to exclude that income from your taxes.
Tax Credit for Caregivers:Caregivers of dependents with disabilities may be eligible for a tax credit of up to $500.
Specially Adapted Housing Deduction: Certain expenses for the construction or renovation of a home to accommodate a disability may be tax-deductible.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are not taxed, so people with disabilities who receive these benefits will not have to pay taxes on them. You can find information on these tax benefits and more on the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website. Additionally, the National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) is a good resource for information and support for people with disabilities.
Publication 907 Tax Highlights for Persons With Disabilities
Publication 907 Tax Highlights for Persons with Disabilities is a publication created by the Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service that provides information and guidance on various tax benefits, credits and deductions that may be available to individuals with disabilities and their families.
Note: It is recommended to consult a tax professional for personalized and detailed advice.
Maximizing Tax Benefits for Inclusive Employers
As a business owner, it is important to not only provide equal opportunities for all employees but also to understand the various tax benefits available for accommodating people with disabilities. Accommodating individuals with disabilities not only promotes diversity and inclusion in the workplace but can also provide significant tax savings for a company. Consider:
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Tax Credit: This credit is available to
businesses that make their facilities accessible to people with disabilities. The credit is
equal to 50% of eligible expenses, up to $10,250 per year.
Disabled Access Credit: Small businesses with 30 or fewer employees and $1,000,000 or less in gross receipts can claim a credit of up to $5,000 for expenses related to providing accessibility for people with disabilities.
Disabled Access Credit: This tax benefit allows eligible small businesses to claim a credit of up to $5,000 for expenses related to making their facilities accessible to individuals with disabilities. This credit can be claimed annually and can be used to cover costs, such as installing ramps, elevators or other accessibility equipment. The IRS provides additional details surrounding this credit on its website.
Architectural and Transportation Barrier Removal Deduction: This deduction allows eligible businesses to claim a deduction of up to $15,000 per year for expenses related to removing architectural and transportation barriers for individuals with disabilities. This deduction can be used to cover expenses such as widening doorways or installing wheelchair ramps. Again, additional information is outlined by the IRS.
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More Tax Tips for Inclusive Businesses
In addition to these tax benefits, it’s also important to note that under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), businesses with 15 or more employees are required to make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. This includes providing assistive technology, adjusting work schedules and making physical changes to the workplace. The U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division provides more information about the ADA and the requirements for businesses on its website.
To learn more about these tax benefits and how to apply them to your business, visit the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) website which has an overview of the
tax benefits for small businesses that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); and also review guidance housed on the IRS’s website for details on the Disabled Access Credit and the Architectural and Transportation Barrier Removal Deduction.
By understanding the various tax benefits available, business owners can make informed decisions about how to better accommodate people with disabilities while potentially saving in taxes. Simply put, maximizing tax benefits for accommodating people with disabilities is smart business!
SB 784, also known as ‘Protect Our Loved Ones Act’, maintains the “Special Persons Registry’ database in Florida, which took effect on January 1, 2024. It is a specialized registry for people with disabilities to improve their interactions with law enforcement. This registry, detailed in House Bills 1275 and 1277, includes guidelines for listing individuals and controlling access to the information.
The purpose of the registry is to inform law enforcement about a person’s disability, preventing misinterpretations of behaviors that could be wrongly perceived as hostility or criminal intent. Other Florida programs like Smart911 in Sumter County, and CARES (County Autism Response & Enhanced Services) in Seminole County, exemplify efforts to alert first responders about someone’s disability by use of an identification bracelet program.
Enrollment in the Registry
Enrollment in the registry requires a confirmed diagnosis from a healthcare professional. The registry contains personal and disability-related information, and individuals can request removal from the registry. Access to this information is limited to first responders and is exempt from public records requests.
The registry, which is voluntary, requires proof of disability and, if applicable, proof of guardianship for registrations made on behalf of someone else. It is hoped that this registry will assist especially in situations involving missing persons with special needs, providing vital information to narrow down search efforts.
Registry Concerns
Despite its potential benefits, the effectiveness of the law in broader scenarios involving distressed individuals remains to be seen. Concerns have been raised about the high incidence of fatal police encounters involving people with disabilities. Advocacy groups like Disability Rights Florida emphasize the need for better training for law enforcement and equitable rights access within the justice system for those with disabilities.
While the registry is a progressive step towards accommodating the needs of individuals with disabilities, its impact on changing law enforcement practices and ensuring safer interactions is yet to be fully evaluated.
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Emergency services play a crucial role in the well-being and support of individuals with disabilities, particularly those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). These services are vital because individuals with disabilities may face unique challenges during emergencies, requiring specialized care and assistance. In moments of crisis, individuals with I/DD may experience heightened anxiety, communication difficulties, or specific behavioral needs that necessitate immediate and tailored intervention. Columnist Jeff Edelstein of The Trentonian reported on expanded emergency services happening in New Jersey.
“Commissioner Sarah Adelman of the New Jersey Human Services department has announced significant enhancements to the statewide emergency services programs aiding adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
Contracts have been awarded to three organizations—Community Options, Inc., Community Access Unlimited, and Oaks Integrated Care—to manage emergency capacity services (ECS) programs across the state. These ECS programs specifically cater to individuals with I/DD, including those with acute behavioral needs requiring immediate residential and day program support. The funding secured will ensure round-the-clock availability for admissions, seven days a week, 365 days a year, with continuous 24-hour coverage.
Referrals to the ECS programs are made by the Human Services’ Division of Developmental Disabilities. While the Division has previously managed ECS programs, these new contracts aim to bolster behavioral support and improve service delivery in various aspects.The services offered are intended to be short-term, spanning no more than 60 days, prioritizing the health and safety of the individual while devising a plan for permanent supports.
In addition to primary services, ancillary support such as recreational activities and transportation to and from community services—including day services or transitional activities—will be included. If alternate day services are unavailable upon admission, daytime activities will be provided. Moreover, transportation to day services, routine and specialized medical care, mental health support, and other necessary services will also be offered.
All new programs are mandated to be licensed, open, and operational by June 30, 2024.”
By providing timely and specialized care, these services help prevent further escalation of issues, promoting the individual’s physical and mental well-being. Furthermore, such services facilitate a coordinated and collaborative approach among various stakeholders, including government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations, to ensure that individuals with disabilities receive the support they need during challenging circumstances.
The commitment to enhancing emergency services reflects a broader societal recognition of the importance of inclusivity and equitable access to critical care for all members of the community.
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In the journey of motherhood, some mothers navigate challenges that redefine the conventional norms of nurturing. Jennifer McLelland, mom to James, shares her heart-wrenching yet inspiring story, whose unwavering love and determination have become the guiding lights in her son’s life. Born with disabilities that necessitated the use of a feeding tube, this resilient child faced a unique set of obstacles in learning to eat.
Through this mother’s story, you will understand the profound struggles and triumphs entwined in the quest to instill a fundamental aspect of people — the act of eating — into a life touched by extraordinary circumstances. It is a must-read for parents transitioning their child to a feeding tube.
“James’ relationship with food is complicated. He was tube fed for most of his early life, first with formula, and later with food processed in a blender. Now, at age 12, he gets about half of his calories from food and relies on Pediasure—vitamin-fortified formula—to get enough calories. For years, I felt guilty about the Pediasure. Every can made me feel like I was failing to give him “real” food. It took me years to accept that food doesn’t have a moral value. Feeding your child easily digestible food so they get adequate nutrition isn’t a weakness. Food doesn’t have to be a source of joy. It can simply be a source of nourishment.
This isn’t so much a story about how my son learned to eat as it is a story about how I came to terms with how he eats. The fact that my son hated food from a young age because his disabilities made the act of eating painful and scary made every mealtime hard. And for the longest time, I blamed myself.“
Click here to view the original article www.yesmagazine.org
Jennifer’s journey of a mother’s dedication to teaching her child to eat, is evident that love and resilience can triumph over even the most challenging circumstances. This family’s story serves as an inspiration to many facing similar battles. For those seeking support and resources to assist children reliant on feeding tubes, the organizations and businesses listed below stand ready to lend a helping hand.
Advocacy Services
Nestle Health Science provides tube feeding resources and information for individuals, parents and caregivers.
The Oley Foundation is a non-profit home nutrition therapy community and advocacy group for those living with tube feeding or IV nutrition.
Dysphagia Outreach Project is a non-profit whose mission is to collect and distribute dysphagia supplies to those in need, as well as provide advocacy and education services.
Meal Services
Real Food Blends provides nutritious packaged meals to supplement a feeding tube formula-only diet.
Feeding Tube Supplies
Amazon offers a wide array of feeding tube supplies. Disclaimer: AmeriDisability may get a small commission for products purchased using this link, at no cost to you. This helps support our site.
By connecting with these resources, parents and caregivers can find a community that understands their unique journey and access the knowledge needed to provide the best possible care for their children. Together, we can foster a supportive environment where every child, regardless of their challenges, can thrive and flourish.
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An article by Hansi Lo Wang with NPR is a must read for everyone with a disability. The recent Census Bureau proposal aims to modify the methodology for estimating the number of people with disabilities in the United States. The proposal has sparked debates among disability advocates who express concerns about potential changes to the disability questions on the annual American Community Survey, fearing it could impact the accuracy of government statistics and allocation of federal funding.
“A proposal to change how the Census Bureau produces a key set of estimates about the number of people with disabilities in the United States has sparked controversy among many disability advocates.
Some are concerned that the potential revisions to the disability questions on the bureau’s annual American Community Survey, as well as how the bureau reports out people’s responses, could skew the government’s official statistics. That in turn, advocates worry, would make it harder to ensure that disabled people have access to housing and health care, enforce legal protections against discrimination in schools and at work, and prepare communities for disasters and emergencies.”
The proposed changes by the Census Bureau to redefine how disability is assessed and reported hold significant implications for individuals with disabilities. This topic is of paramount importance as it directly influences the accuracy of data that underpins policy decisions, resource allocation, and legal protections for disabled individuals. The potential alterations in the disability questions on the American Community Survey could impact the visibility of the disabled population, potentially affecting access to crucial services such as housing, healthcare, and education.
For people with disabilities, the outcome of this proposal could shape the extent of societal inclusion, the enforcement of anti-discrimination laws, and the overall responsiveness of communities to their unique needs. Thus, the controversy surrounding this Census Bureau initiative highlights the broader significance of accurate and comprehensive data in ensuring equitable representation and safeguarding the rights of individuals with disabilities.
