A day in the life of a caretaker

Kees Beehner, a 30-year-old with cerebral palsy and an intellectual disability, relies on direct care workers at Opportunities Unlimited in Lewiston for essential support. Caregiver Melanie Heald assists Kees with daily activities and fosters his social connections, promoting his independence. His mother, Stephanie Beehner, values the freedom this living arrangement provides her, as she can pursue work without the limitations of full-time caregiving. Despite their crucial role, direct care professionals face significant challenges, particularly in Idaho where Medicaid funding is often threatened. Kelly Head-Halliday, president of the Idaho Association of Community Providers, emphasized their luck in not facing funding cuts.

Nationwide, approximately 4. 5 million direct care workers support individuals with disabilities and seniors. The struggle for sustainable careers in this field highlights the importance of advocacy for better funding and support. As Kees enjoys activities like music and spending time with friends, the dedication of his caregivers significantly enriches his life.