Top Programs in New Jersey for Individuals with Cerebral Palsy & Their Families

New Jersey has several programs to support those with cerebral palsy and their families. We’ve outlined the options and included information on how to access them, so you and your loved one can easily navigate the support that’s available locally. 

Finding the right support and resources for managing cerebral palsy can be a complex process, but New Jersey offers a variety of programs designed to make this journey more manageable. 

Each one of these programs caters to different aspects of care and support. To access them, you’ll need to enroll your loved one in the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (NJ DDD) and choose a support coordination agency to work with first. Let’s go over all the details. 

Enrolling in NJ DDD for Cerebral Palsy Support

NJ DDD is a division of the NJ Department of Human Services that provides a variety of services to those with disabilities. To access these services, an individual must:

• Have a developmental disability determined by NJ DDD (NJ DDD recognizes cerebral palsy as a developmental disability)
• Be 21 years of age or older
• Be a legal U.S. citizen and resident of New Jersey
• Be eligible for or enrolled in Medicaid

Once you determine that your loved one is eligible for NJ DDD services, you can begin the formal application process. Your loved one will need to complete the New Jersey Comprehensive Assessment Tool (NJCAT). Once approved, support coordination services can begin. 

NJ Support Coordination for Individuals with Cerebral Palsy

Support coordination is a person-centered service designed to help individuals with disabilities and their families navigate the complex network of available supports, services, and community resources. It serves as a bridge between families and the multitude of programs offered through the DDD, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs are met.

Related: 5 Tips for Choosing the Right Support Coordination Agency

Your support coordinator will play a pivotal role in your loved one’s support plan, and you’ll be working closely together to ensure that the services, resources, and opportunities your loved one receives are tailored to their individual needs and goals. This is why it’s so important to choose the right agency for your loved one and family.

After enrollment with your agency of choice, a support coordinator will work with your loved one and family to create the Individualized Service Plan (ISP). This plan is customized based on your loved one’s goals, preferences, and needs, outlining the specific services and supports they will receive. The ISP is reviewed and updated regularly to ensure it remains aligned with your loved one’s changing circumstances and aspirations.

The support coordinator will then work closely with your loved one and you to identify and connect you with the service providers and programs that align with the ISP. Below, we’ve identified two key types of programs available for individuals with cerebral palsy in New Jersey —and how your support coordinator can help you and your loved one take advantage of them. 

Related: 6 Steps to Creating an Individual Service Plan (ISP) Tailored to Your Loved One

Two Types of Programs in NJ for Those with Cerebral Palsy

#1 – Day Habilitation Programs

Day habilitation is a community-based program that provides structured, supportive environments for individuals with disabilities, like cerebral palsy, during the day. Participants attend the program during daytime hours and return home in the evenings. These programs are designed to help individuals build and enhance essential life skills while offering opportunities for socialization and community engagement. For many families, day habilitation serves as a valuable resource, empowering their loved ones to gain independence while engaging in a community setting.

What day habilitation programs offer:

• Skill development: Day habilitation programs focus on teaching essential skills that enhance independence, such as personal care, cooking, money management, and communication. These programs provide tailored support to help participants reach their individual goals and dreams. 
• Social and recreational activities: Participants engage in a variety of activities designed to foster social connections, build friendships, and encourage community involvement. These activities can include arts and crafts, music therapy, sports, volunteering, and outings to local attractions.
• Therapeutic support: Many day habilitation programs offer access to on-site therapy services, such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy, helping participants to continue working on their therapeutic goals in a familiar setting. 
• Community integration: Day habilitation encourages participants to become more involved in their communities through group outings, volunteer opportunities, and community service projects. These experiences promote a sense of belonging, improve social skills, and help participants build confidence in navigating different environments.

#2 – Assistive Technology Programs

Assistive technology plays a key role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with cerebral palsy by providing tools and devices that help overcome physical, communication, and mobility challenges. From adaptive equipment to specialized software, assistive technology can empower individuals to perform daily tasks more independently, communicate more effectively, and participate fully in their communities. 

The NJ DDD provides support for obtaining assistive technology through various funding programs, such as the Supports Program and the Community Care Program. Families can work with their support coordinators to assess their needs, identify the appropriate technology, and secure funding for these devices through programs such as these.

Types of assistive technology available:

• Communication devices: Options range from low-tech tools, like picture boards and communication books, to high-tech speech-generating devices and apps that translate text to speech. 
• Mobility aids: Examples include specialized wheelchairs, walkers, and motorized scooters that are tailored to individual needs. 
• Adaptive computer technology: This can include screen readers for those with visual impairments, alternative input devices such as head pointers or switch systems, and voice recognition software that enables hands-free control. 
• Home modifications: This may involve installing ramps, stairlifts, grab bars, and adaptive bathroom equipment. 

Related: Getting the Support Your Deserve: What to Expect from a Trusted Support Coordination Agency 

Final Thoughts 

Thanks to support coordination and the many programs available in New Jersey, your loved one with cerebral palsy can access personalized care and valuable resources. Having the right support makes every step of this journey more manageable and filled with opportunities for growth, independence, and joy.

Want to partner with a support coordination agency that specializes in cerebral palsy? Contact Skylands Family Support today.