Shortage of care professionals poses crisis for families of those with disabilities

• By: CDDACS
• On: 03/02/2022 11:53:40
• In: CDDACS News

Cindy Vayonis is searching for an activity to do with her daughter. It's winter, so they can't go apple picking. Kennywood, Sandcastle and swimming at a community pool are obviously out as well, she said.

If it's warm enough, Vayonis and her daughter Lexi may take a walk outdoors; otherwise, they head to a grocery store.

“But I can only go to Giant Eagle, Whole Foods and Target so much,” Vayonis said.

Six years ago, Vayonis became Lexi's full-time caregiver.

Lexi, 29, has “intellectual deficits and behavioral issues,” her mother said.

Undertaking Lexi's care was largely due to staffing issues. Each time a new direct support professional tried to work with Lexi, Vayonis received notice that her daughter's “behavioral issues were too difficult,” and the family was dropped as a client.  More here.