Supports Intensity Scale
The PDD Program in Alberta has adopted the Supports Intensity Scale (SIS) as the standard assessment used in determining the supports needed by adults with developmental disabilities.
The scale was developed in 2004 by the American Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) as part of their effort to better determine what individuals need and as a way to help governments to use funding more effectively.
The SIS defines an individual’s needs differently. Unlike traditional deficit based assessments, the SIS looks at and measures the support a person needs to live successful life in society, just like anyone else. The SIS measures the type, frequency and daily duration of support a person needs to successfully participate in 57 distinct life activities in the community. 23 exceptional medical and behavioural support needs are also measured.
When coupled with other processes like Person Centered Planning, which assists in identifying preferred life activities and goals, the SIS can assist a person to get the right services and funding for their needs and aspirations.
In Alberta, everyone who is applying and found eligible for PDD services and funding will be required to participate in the SIS assessment. Also, over the next 2 years, everyone who is currently receiving PDD services and funding will be required to participate in an assessment.
The assessments are being conducted by PDD staff who have been certified by AAIDD. The SIS is completed during a face to face interview with the individual, family members or others who know the person well. A SIS specialist facilitates the interview by discussing a number of life activities then assisting the group to determine the score. The process takes about three hours and is done in a location suitable for the individual and family. Results from the assessment will be shared with the individual and the family guardian.
The assessment of support needs will be considered with other information in determining the actual services each individual receives.
Anyone wanting more information about the implementation of the SIS in the PDD Northeast Region is invited to contact Gael Ronaghan at (780) 645-6239.
