Supporting Developmental Disabilities Awareness Year-Round

President Ronald Reagan’s 1987 proclamation declaring March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month urges people to give Americans with disabilities “the encouragement and opportunities they need to lead productive lives and achieve their full potential.”

That’s something we keep in mind year-round and proudly celebrate every March at Hancock Health. This month-long effort in support of people with autism, cerebral palsy, learning disabilities, hearing and vision impairment, and other conditions also reminds us to keep striving to find new ways to serve these patients, friends, and neighbors. Here are a few ways we’re helping right now:

Helping Students with Disabilities Become More Independent

Beginning in the 2020-21 school year, Hancock Health will offer pre-employment transition services for Mt. Vernon and Greenfield Central High School students with developmental or physical disabilities. Students will receive instruction focused on workplace readiness skills, self-advocacy, and job exploration in an immersive setting.

Supporting People with Disabilities and Their Caregivers

Past and current Hancock Health patients and their caregivers can participate in our Rehabilitation Services department’s monthly support group for people with neurological disorders. Our group meetings create opportunities to share experiences, learn from others, and make new friends.

Giving Patients Local Access to Necessary Medical Equipment

If you thought you needed to leave town to find specialized medical equipment, think again. Hancock Health Home Medical Equipment, located at 1117 North State Street in Greenfield offers medical beds, wheelchairs, scooters, lift chairs, bathing equipment, and more. We can even take special orders and help you shop at home.

Keeping Everyone in the Care Loop

Because helping doctors, nurses, and patients communicate creates better outcomes for everyone, we provide sign language interpreters to assist anyone who is hearing impaired. Our partner, Luna Language Services, has translators for over 200 different languages.

If you’d like more information about any of the items on this list—or if you, a friend, or family member is looking for a service we didn’t include—please contact us at Hancock Health and ask questions. We’re always available to help.