Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Practice Exam

What did the Olmstead decision affirm regarding people with disabilities?

1. They have the right to live in institutions

2. They must rely on family for support

3. They have a right to receive state-funded supports in the community

4. They are entitled to limited support from the state

The correct answer is: They have a right to receive state-funded supports in the community

The Olmstead decision, issued by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1999, affirmed that people with disabilities have the right to live in the community rather than being segregated in institutional settings. The ruling emphasized that states are required to provide services in the most integrated setting appropriate to individuals’ needs, leading to the conclusion that individuals with disabilities should have access to state-funded supports that enable them to live independently within their communities. This landmark decision was rooted in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which aims to eliminate discrimination against individuals with disabilities. The importance of this decision lies in promoting the dignity and autonomy of individuals with disabilities, enabling them to participate fully in society. Thus, the affirmation of their right to receive community-based supports is crucial for fostering inclusion and improving the quality of life for these individuals.