As the Americans with Disabilities Act turns 36, Homage Senior Services offers resources

Thirty-six years after the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law, its promise of access, independence and equal opportunity remains as important as ever for people living with disabilities, Homage Senior Services said in a news release.

On July 26, the nation marks the anniversary of the landmark bipartisan civil rights law signed by President George H.W. Bush in 1990, which prohibits discrimination against people living with disabilities and promotes equal access to employment, transportation, public accommodations and community life.

Today, more than one in four Washington adults (27%) lives with a disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Nationally, 61 million people live with disabilities, making this one of the largest and most diverse communities in the country.

Serving more than 25,000 people each year, Homage Senior Services is one of Snohomish County’s largest providers of services for people living with disabilities and older adults. Through programs that improve accessibility, transportation, nutrition, mental health and access to essential resources, Homage said it helps people maintain independence and improve quality of life.

These services include:

Minor Home Repair

Safety repairs and accessibility modifications (including ramps, grab bars, handrails and flooring repairs), for homeowners age 62-plus and adults age 18-plus living with a disability. Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, and accessibility modifications can reduce fall risk by up to 50%, according to the CDC.

Transportation Assistance Program (TAP)

Door-to-door transportation to medical appointments, pharmacies, grocery stores, and other essential errands for older adults and people living with disabilities. The program is particularly important in rural communities where transportation options can be limited.

Meals on wheels

Nutritious meals and wellness checks delivered to homebound older adults and people living with disabilities of any age. Homage delivers hundreds of thousands of meals annually.

Aging and Disability Resource Network (ADRN)

Thousands of people each year receive information and assistance navigating disability, aging, housing, benefits and long-term support resources.

Mental health counseling

One of the only programs in Snohomish County offering free mental health counseling for older adults and people living with disabilities.

Nutrition and Social Connection Programs

Congregate dining, multicultural meal sites and social connection programs that help reduce isolation and strengthen community connections.

“People living with disabilities should have what they need to live securely and confidently at home,” said Homage Senior Director of Programs Juli Rose. “Our work focuses on providing services that help people remain safe, independent and connected to their communities.”