How to Prepare for Your First DDA Planning Meeting

Navigating Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) services for the first time can feel overwhelming for many families. Your first DDA planning meeting is an important step in creating a support plan that helps your loved one live a safe, meaningful, and independent life.

Understanding what to expect and how to prepare can make the process smoother and help ensure your family’s needs and goals are clearly communicated.

What Is a DDA Planning Meeting?

A DDA planning meeting is designed to identify the supports and services an individual may need based on their unique strengths, challenges, goals, and daily living needs. These meetings are typically person-centered, meaning the individual receiving services should remain at the center of all discussions and decisions.

The planning team may include:

• The individual receiving services

• Family members or guardians

• Support coordinators/case managers

• DDA representatives

• Providers or healthcare professionals

The purpose is to develop a plan that promotes independence, safety, community involvement, and overall quality of life.

What Families Should Bring to the Meeting

Being prepared can help families feel more confident and ensure important information is not overlooked.

Important Documents

Bring copies of:

• Medical records or diagnoses

• Psychological evaluations

• School IEPs or transition plans (if applicable)

• Medication lists

• Therapy or specialist reports

• Emergency contact information

Notes About Daily Needs

It can also help to write down:

• Daily routines

• Areas where support is needed

• Safety concerns

• Behavioral or communication challenges

• Strengths, hobbies, and interests

• Long-term goals for independence or employment

Questions and Concerns

Many families forget important questions during the meeting. Bring a written list so you can reference it during discussions.

Questions Families Should Ask

Your first planning meeting is an opportunity to better understand available services and advocate for the individual’s needs.

Here are some helpful questions to ask:

About Services

• What services does the individual qualify for?

• How many support hours are available?

• Are residential, personal support, or community services available?

• What transportation options exist?

About Providers

• How are providers selected?

• Can families choose or change providers later?

• What should we look for in a quality provider?

About Goals and Planning

• How often are plans reviewed?

• How are goals measured?

• What happens if needs change over time?

About Emergencies and Communication

• Who should families contact with concerns?

• How are emergencies handled?

• How will communication between staff and families work?

Asking questions helps families better understand the process and feel more empowered moving forward.

How Goals and Services Are Determined

DDA services are not one-size-fits-all. Services and goals are based on the individual’s unique needs, preferences, and abilities.

Several factors are typically considered, including:

• Health and medical needs

• Daily living skills

• Communication abilities

• Behavioral supports

• Community involvement

• Employment or educational goals

• Safety and supervision needs

Person-Centered Planning

The planning process focuses on what is important to and for the individual. This means the team works together to identify goals that support independence, dignity, and personal choice.

Examples of goals may include:

• Learning independent living skills

• Increasing community participation

• Improving communication skills

• Building social connections

• Finding employment opportunities

• Developing daily routines

Services are then recommended to help achieve those goals.

How Integrative Care Can Help

Choosing the right provider can make a significant difference in your family’s experience with DDA services.

At Integrative Care, we understand that every individual has unique goals, strengths, and support needs. Our team is committed to providing compassionate, person-centered services that help individuals thrive at home and in the community.

We support families by offering:

• Individualized care plans

• Community living and support services

• Skilled and compassionate staff

• Assistance promoting independence and daily living skills

• Ongoing communication and collaboration with families

• A supportive environment focused on dignity, respect, and quality care

Whether your loved one is just beginning the DDA process or transitioning into new services, our team is here to help guide and support you every step of the way.