
Interstate Connections Newsletter – February 2026
General Disability Etiquette – Let’s redefine the face of ability!
Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.
Use respectful language…

How to Plan a Hospital Visit – to avoid challenges and complications
For those with Parkinson’s disease, or other chronic health issues, a stay in the hospital can present a challenge. There can be problems that you do not expect or are not prepared to handle, said Pam Kohlmeier, MD, JD, FACEP (“Dr. Pam”) in her recent talk to the Peer2Peer Parkinson’s support group, but you can help diminish stress and improve safety by careful planning….

News from DAC NEW
Peer support is considered one of the pillars of the Independent Living Movement and an essential element for the self-determination of disabled people. According to the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL), the Independent Living Movement is founded in the belief that people with disabilities, regardless of the form, have a common history and a shared struggle, that we are a community and a culture that will…

ADA Question of the Month
QUESTION:
Should I look to hire people with disabilities in my business?
ANSWER:
Yes! The ADA provides protections against disability discrimination…

Step-by-Step Home Cleaning Guide
Keeping a clean and organized home supports physical health, emotional wellbeing, and dignity. For people with disabilities however, home cleaning can feel overwhelming due to mobility limits, fatigue, pain, or accessibility barriers. This does not mean that a safe and hygienic living space is out of reach. With the right strategies, adaptive tools, and…

The 5 C’s of Caregiving
When it’s time to interview a new in-home caregiver, are you looking at the 5 C’s of caregiving?
This often refers to Simone Roach’s nursing model and can form a framework for quality care. The original 5 have been adapted for in -home care.
Caring/Compassion: Can the caregiver show…