Updates have been made to the Adult Day Support (ADS) service rule. Please review Ohio Administrative Code 5123-9-17 for all updates. Major changes include:

The definition of ‘integrated community setting’ was updated to clarify what the Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) considers to be an integrated community setting:

• An integrated community setting is a place where people receive home and community-based services in a way that helps them take part in everyday community life. In an integrated community setting:
  • People receiving services should work or join activities just like everyone else in the community. They have the same opportunity to participate as people who are not receiving services.
  • If the setting provides jobs, workers with disabilities must be paid at least minimum wage and get the same benefits that other employees receive under company rules and labor laws.
  • The place where the person is working is open to the public and runs like other businesses in the community. For example, it follows normal business hours for that type of business, which might include evenings or weekends.
  • The setting helps people connect with the community, including local resources, activities, and opportunities based on each person’s interests and goals.

A reminder that “small group” means: a service arrangement when one direct support professional provides adult day support to no more than four participants in order to deliver more individualized and intensive services based on the participants’ assessed needs.

The rule now contains specific requirements regarding facilities where ADS is provided. This includes:

• Annual fire safety inspection by the local or state fire marshal.
• At least three fire drills and one tornado drill per year, with documentation.
• Monthly testing of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors on each level.
• Annual service provided to fire extinguishers.
• Written emergency preparedness plan covering weather, fire, and other emergencies.
• Secure storage of medications, cleaning supplies, and hazardous materials
• Privacy for toileting areas.
• Unobstructed emergency exits.

Providers delivering ADS will need to document and meet updated training requirements, which include the following:

• Services that comprise adult day support.
• The agency provider’s policies and procedures governing the provision of ADS.
• Ensuring services support a person’s full participation in the greater community.
• Engaging people who receive services in developing, planning, and scheduling activities based on their interests, skills, talents, and needs.
• Ensuring a person’s rights of privacy, dignity, and respect, and freedom from coercion and restraint.
• Signs and symptoms of illness or injury and procedures for response.
• Site-specific emergency response plans.
• Program-specific transportation safety.

Questions can be emailed to [email protected]