The Vital Role of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) at Easterseals

DSPs are essential workers who offer direct support to people with disabilities, older adults, and veterans. They are mentors and advocates for each person they support. Their work empowers people to achieve their career goals and live fulfilling, independent lives.

Without DSPs, people may experience:

1. Loss of Independence: DSPs can help with tasks like getting dressed, meal preparation, transportation, and personal care. Without support, living independently can become significantly challenging for many people.
2. Disruption of Employment and Education: Many people with disabilities work or attend school with DSP support. Losing this assistance could force them to leave jobs or discontinue education, limiting long-term opportunities.
3. Decline in Health and Safety: DSPs can help with medication management, mobility assistance, and monitoring health conditions. Without them, there could be a higher risk of medical emergencies, malnutrition, or untreated health issues.
4. Social Isolation: DSPs can connect people with their community, employment opportunities, and social activities. Losing this support can lead to isolation, loneliness, and mental health challenges like depression or anxiety.
5. Increased Pressure on Families: Family members may need to step in to provide care, which could be physically, emotionally, or financially draining. Losing support from DSPs can force caregivers to reduce work hours or quit jobs, affecting household income and stability.
6. Institutionalization Risk: Without DSPs, some individuals may no longer be able to live in their homes and could be placed in institutional settings, which can reduce personal freedom and lower overall well-being.
    

DSPs can help make dreams come true.

Bill was non-verbal until his DSP, Tami helped him learn to to express his wants and needs, from the most basic to his biggest dreams. Tami recalls him telling her of one very clear desire to visit Disney World.

Unwilling to let Bill’s expressed wish go unfulfilled, Tami worked out the details, and together they took Bill’s dream trip. 

DSPs empower independence.

To support her goal of living independently, Sabrina learned behavior and time management and scheduling transportation. She learned to cook healthy meals, how to care for her home, and manage a household budget. 

With the help of her Direct Support Professionals, Sabrina moved into her new home and began a future filled with dignity and independence.

DSPs make community happen. 

Worried about her daughter’s daily isolation after graduating high school, Heidi’s mother enrolled her in day services. With the help of her DSP staff, Heidi was communicating again, making friends, and learning acceptable ways to express her frustrations. 

DSPs make living with dignity possible. 

When Eleanor’s husband died, she was unable to care for herself. With no other family, Eleanor was referred for services. Eleanor got help moving into a new apartment, started a supported employment job, and began meeting with DSP staff. 

Eleanor learned that she deserved to live a happy, healthy life. With the support of her DSP team, she has made progress believing that she deserves good things.