Disability Terms and Definitions

Augmentative or alternative communication (AAC) device An electronic device that talks for a person who cannot speak. The device usually has a recorded or electronic voice and can say words or sentences the user chooses. Supplemental Security Income (SSI): A cash benefit authorized by Title 16 of the federal Social Security Act. Eligibility and benefits are administered by the federal Social Security Administration at field offices throughout each state. Medicaid provider A professional or medical facility who is enrolled as a provider for the Medicaid Program by entering into a contract with the Medicaid Program to provide medical services to Medicaid eligible recipients. By entering into this contract the professional has agreed to abide by all rules and regulations governing the Medicaid Program. Own Occupation (Own Occ) Under this definition, an insured will be considered disabled only if he or she is unable to perform the duties of his or her occupation. Optional Supplementation The payments made by States to help persons meet needs not fully covered by Federal SSI benefits. The State determines whether it will make a payment, to whom, and in what amount. ADA Title I: Employment Title I requires employers with 15 or more employees to provide qualified individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to benefit from the full range of employment-related opportunities available to others. Mandatory Supplementation The supplementary payments that are made only to beneficiaries who were converted to the SSI program from former State assistance programs at the inception of the SSI program. Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS) Under an approved PASS, recipients of federal SSI may set aside income and/or resources over a period of time to reach a goal to become financially self supporting. The income and resources set aside may later be used to obtain occupational training or education, purchase occupational equipment, establish a business, etc. IDEA Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Continuing Disability Review (CDR) An evaluation of an individual's impairment(s) to determine whether the person is still disabled within the meaning of the law for purposes of eligibility for SSI and OASDI benefits.

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	Did You Know?
	Adult Care Home is also called board and care home or group home Residence which offers housing and personal care services for 3 to 16 residents. Services (such as meals, supervision, and transportation) are usually provided by the owner or manager. May be single family home. (Licensed as adult family home or adult group home.)