Benefits

Being a Developmental Disabilities Administration client not only offers you access to services but other benefits include the following.

• Access to the Developmental Disabilities Endowment Trust Fund

• An annual physical examination and additional dental services through Apple Health

• Reduced fees through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

• Discounted passes with Washington State Parks

• Additional affordable housing options

Vulnerable Adult

Being classified as a Vulnerable Adult gives the individual additional protections.

DSHS can investigate situations of abuse, abandonment, neglect, self-neglect, or financial exploitation that involve an alleged victim who meets the definition of ‘vulnerable adult’ in the law. APS refers situations that involve alleged victims who do not fall within the definition of ‘vulnerable adult’ to appropriate resources.The law defines ‘vulnerable adult’ as (RCW 74.34.020 ; RCW 74.34.021):

• A person 60 years of age or older with functional, physical, or mental inability to care for self; or

• An adult 18 years of age or older who:

  • Has a developmental disability; or

  • Has a guardian as per RCW 11.88 ; or

  • Lives in a nursing facility, boarding home, adult family home, or soldier’s home, residential habilitation center, or any facility licensed or required to be licensed by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS); or

  • Receives in-home services through a licensed health care agency, hospice, or an individual provider; or

  • Self-directs his/her own care 
    (see RCW 74.39.050).