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Plan for the Closure of Lanterman Developmental Center

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The PowerPoint <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> residents <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lanterman</strong> was presented at a meeting attended by<br />

56 individuals from 14 residences. An additional seven consumers chose not to attend<br />

<strong>the</strong> meeting but <strong>the</strong>ir input was conveyed by o<strong>the</strong>rs.<br />

As <strong>the</strong> PowerPoint was presented, staff reiterated <strong>the</strong> questions <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> group and<br />

documented responses. Residents identified <strong>the</strong> events and activities that were most<br />

important, and school and work were among <strong>the</strong> highest priorities. O<strong>the</strong>r events such<br />

as religious services, outings to McDonald’s, eating at <strong>the</strong> canteen, shopping, visits with<br />

family, and dances were also referenced; and <strong>the</strong>re is an interest in continuing those<br />

activities whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>y live at <strong>Lanterman</strong> or in <strong>the</strong> community. One person indicated he<br />

would like to live alone, while several o<strong>the</strong>rs stated <strong>the</strong>ir objection to moving to <strong>the</strong><br />

community and referenced <strong>the</strong> importance <strong>of</strong> remaining connected to family.<br />

In addition to <strong>the</strong> responses above, <strong>the</strong>re were statements <strong>of</strong> support to <strong>the</strong> proposed<br />

closure <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lanterman</strong>.<br />

The PowerPoint <strong>for</strong> community input was posted on DDS’s website and widely<br />

distributed to self-advocacy groups and regional center consumer advocates in <strong>the</strong><br />

greater Los Angeles area, as well as <strong>the</strong> Area Board 10 <strong>of</strong>fice <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> State Council on<br />

<strong>Developmental</strong> Disabilities.<br />

Consumer responses indicated that people should be living in a group home or<br />

independent living and integrated into <strong>the</strong>ir community. They viewed preparation in<br />

advance <strong>of</strong> moving as essential. They emphasized a need <strong>for</strong> slow transitions,<br />

encouraging health education <strong>for</strong> wellness, and living skills training that will promote<br />

involvement in <strong>the</strong> community. According to input received, it is important that<br />

arrangements <strong>for</strong> a day program or a job are made be<strong>for</strong>e moving out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> facility, and<br />

<strong>the</strong>re should be access to physicians in <strong>the</strong> community. There was an emphasis on<br />

ensuring a support system be<strong>for</strong>e, during, and after a move to <strong>the</strong> community, and that<br />

people should live close to family and friends. Regular communication should occur<br />

between <strong>Lanterman</strong> DC, regional centers, self-advocates, residents, and families. It<br />

was suggested that <strong>for</strong>mer residents <strong>of</strong> developmental centers and self-advocates could<br />

mentor, train, and present in<strong>for</strong>mation about community living to residents and staff.<br />

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