Glossary
Glossary of Common Terms
The world of disability services can sometimes feel full of unfamiliar terms. This glossary is here to help explain common words and phrases you may hear from support coordinators, service providers, or state agencies. If you ever feel stuck, remember — you’re not alone. Our team is always here to walk alongside you.
ABLEnow Account
A special savings account for individuals with disabilities. It allows individuals to save money without losing eligibility for benefits like Medicaid or SSI.
Aging in Place
The ability for individuals to remain in their own home or apartment as their needs change, rather than moving to a new setting.
Assessment
The process of gathering information about a person’s needs. This may include medical, psychological, and functional evaluations that help determine what services and supports will be most helpful.
Case Manager (Residential)
A staff member employed by RRSI who supports individuals living in our residential or supported living programs. They coordinate services, monitor progress, and ensure each person’s Individual Service Plan (ISP) is being followed. Case Managers work closely with the individual, their family, DSPs, and the Support Coordinator to make sure daily supports align with the person’s goals.
Community Living Waiver (formerly called the ID Waiver)
Provides a wide range of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who need 24/7 support. Services can include personal care, day support, residential support, respite, and more.
Community Services Board (CSB)
Local agencies in Virginia that connect individuals to services such as case management, crisis support, and waiver applications. Each region has its own CSB.
Day Support / Community Engagement
Programs that help individuals build skills, connect with peers, volunteer, or work in their community during the day. These services promote independence and inclusion.
Direct Support Professional (DSP)
A trained staff member who provides daily support to individuals with disabilities, helping with personal care, life skills, community activities, and more. DSPs are the heart of RRSI’s mission, creating safe, meaningful, and connected lives for the individuals they serve.
Family and Individual Supports (FIS) Waiver
Helps individuals with developmental disabilities who live with family, friends, or on their own. Services may include respite, community engagement, employment supports, and more flexible options.
Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)
Services and supports delivered in the community rather than in institutions, designed to promote independence and inclusion.
Housing Choice Voucher (HCV)
A program that helps low-income individuals and families, including individuals with disabilities, pay for safe housing in the community.
Individual Service Plan (ISP)
A detailed plan created by the individual, their support coordinator, and their team. It includes goals, services, and supports, and is updated at least once a year or when major changes happen.
Medicaid
A joint federal and state program that helps cover health care and support services for individuals with limited income and resources. Many disability services are funded through Medicaid.
Natural Supports
Help that comes from family, friends, or community members rather than paid staff or formal services.
Person-Centered Planning
An approach that focuses on the individual’s goals, choices, and preferences — ensuring their voice guides the plan for services and supports.
Quality Assurance (QA)
Processes that ensure services meet high standards of safety, effectiveness, and person-centered care.
Representative Payee
Help with daily living such as cooking, cleaning, bathing, or taking medicine. Supports can be provided in someone’s own home, an apartment, or a group home.
Residential Support
Services and supports provided in the community, rather than in an institution or facility.
Respite Care
Short-term care that gives a primary caregiver a break. Respite may take place in the person’s home or in a residential setting.
Service Authorization
Approval from Medicaid that allows specific services to be provided under a person’s waiver.
Slot
The term used for an opening in a Medicaid waiver. When a person receives a “slot,” they can begin accessing waiver services.
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
Formerly known as “food stamps,” SNAP helps individuals buy groceries and maintain healthy nutrition.
SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
A federal program that provides monthly payments to individuals with disabilities who have little or no income. SSI helps pay for basic needs like food and shelter.
SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)
A federal program that provides benefits to individuals with disabilities who have a work history or whose parent has worked and paid Social Security taxes.
Support Coordinator (Case Manager)
A professional who works for the Community Services Board (CSB). They help individuals understand, plan, and manage their services, making sure supports match the person’s needs.
Waiver
A Medicaid program that helps individuals with disabilities get services and supports in their homes or communities instead of in institutions or nursing facilities.