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Many California beaches also serve as ideal destinations for individuals with sensory sensitivities or developmental disabilities.Here are a few ways to create a sensory-friendly beach day:

• Visit during off-peak hours for a quieter atmosphere
• Choose beaches with calmer waters and less foot traffic
• Bring a sensory kit (e.g., noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, fidget tools)
• Use beach wheelchairs and access mats for smoother navigation and comfort

For families seeking autism-friendly beach trips or low-sensory environments, these small preparations can make a big difference.

Top Accessible Beaches in California

Looking for a beach that offers the best in accessibility and inclusion? Here are some of the most wheelchair-friendly and sensory-considerate beaches in California:

• Santa Monica State Beach – MobiMats, beach wheelchairs, accessible restrooms
• Mission Beach (San Diego) – Wide boardwalk, rentals, sensory-friendly vibe
• Venice Beach – Beach wheelchair access, ADA restrooms
• Zuma Beach (Malibu) – Ample parking, access mats, inclusive features
• Granada Beach (Long Beach) – Known for its accessibility and quiet setting
• Silver Strand State Beach – Paved walkways, calm environment
• Clam Beach (Humboldt County) – Remote and peaceful for low-sensory trips
• Manhattan Beach – Wheelchair access and adaptive surf programs

Plan Your Inclusive Beach Day with Path-Now

From adaptive equipment rentals to sensory support strategies, California’s accessible beaches offer fun and relaxation for everyone—regardless of ability.

By creating a free profile on Path-Now, you can access:

• Thousands of trusted California disability providers
• Up-to-date information on inclusive recreational activities
• Easy connections to developmental disability services and local advocacy groups

Discover inclusive beach adventures and find the support your family needs—only at Path-Now.

Starting a new school year can be challenging for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. A sensory-friendly school routine can reduce stress, improve daily transitions, and promote independence. By establishing a predictable, supportive morning schedule, children can feel more confident and in control—leading to better outcomes both at home and in the classroom.

At Path-Now, we connect families with the best intellectual disability support services and special needs resources in California, making it easier to access the help your child needs.

Here’s a Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Sensory-Friendly School Routine

1. Build a Visual Routine Board

Children who benefit from special education support often thrive on structure and predictability. A visual routine board can help outline the steps of the morning, school day, and even the after-school schedule.

To create an effective board:

• Use a mix of pictures and simple words.
• Include steps like brushing teeth, getting dressed, and packing their school bag.
• Add visuals for transportation and after-school activities.
• Place the board at your child’s eye level to promote independence.

Including sensory breaks—such as stretching, jumping, or calming activities—can help regulate your child’s sensory input and reduce meltdowns.

2. Gradually Transition Into the School Routine

Sudden changes can be overwhelming, especially for children with sensory processing challenges. Ease your child into the school routine by:

• Shifting bedtime and wake-up times gradually (e.g., 15 minutes earlier each day over two weeks).
• Practicing the morning routine together several times before school starts.
• Doing a walkthrough or drive-by of the school route to build familiarity and reduce anxiety.

These small steps can have a big impact on helping your child feel safe and prepared.

3. Prepare a Personal Sensory Pack

A sensory-friendly classroom isn’t always guaranteed, but having a school sensory pack can give your child tools to manage sensory overload throughout the day. Make sure to check with the teacher or school staff on which items are permitted.

Consider including:

• Noise-cancelling headphones to block out loud sounds
• Fidget toys or stress balls for self-regulation
• Sunglasses for bright or visually stimulating environments
• A compression vest for calming deep pressure input

A personalized sensory pack empowers your child to cope with school stress in a healthy, proactive way.

Support for Children with Disabilities in California

Returning to school can feel overwhelming, but with the right sensory tools and consistent routines, your child can experience a smoother transition and a more enjoyable school year.

At Path-Now, we make it easy for families to connect with developmental disability services and disability advocacy groups in California. Whether you’re looking for therapy providers, special education resources, or peer support, our platform helps you find what your child needs—all in one accessible place.

1. Use Accessibility Filters on Booking Platforms

Start by searching on popular platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or Expedia and use their accessibility filters. These filters can help you quickly narrow down your choices based on:

• Wheelchair-accessible entrances and rooms
• Step-free access
• Roll-in showers with grab bars
• Visual and auditory assistance
• Ground-floor accommodations

Pro Tip: Even after applying filters, always contact the host or hotel directly to confirm the information is accurate and up to date.

 

2. Contact the Property Directly for Clarification

One of the best ways to ensure a property is fully accessible is to speak with staff or hosts before booking. Prepare a checklist of your needs to guide the conversation. Key questions might include:

• Are the entrances, hallways, and elevators wheelchair-friendly?
• Are there walk-in or roll-in showers with grab bars?
• Is there an emergency alert system in place for guests with disabilities?
• Do they offer hoists, transfer benches, or shower chairs?

Speaking directly to the accommodation provider can give you peace of mind and help you avoid unexpected issues during your stay.

3. Ask About Staff Disability Awareness and Training

Inclusive hospitality isn’t just about physical accessibility—it’s also about attitude and understanding. Ask if staff have undergone disability awareness or accessibility training. Well-trained, respectful staff can make all the difference in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for guests with disabilities.

4. Research the Surrounding Area

Your hotel or Airbnb may be accessible—but what about the local area? When researching, consider:

• Proximity to accessible public transportation
• Availability of accessible tourist attractions, shops, and restaurants
• Whether the neighborhood is quiet or high-traffic, depending on your sensory needs
• Access to healthcare facilities or pharmacies, just in case

Choose accommodations located in areas that suit your mobility, sensory, and daily living needs for a smoother travel experience.

5. Read Reviews from Other Travelers with Disabilities

Before booking, check online reviews—especially those written by other travelers with disabilities. Firsthand experiences can highlight accessibility strengths or potential challenges that aren’t mentioned in official listings.

Look for reviews that mention:

• Accessibility of rooms and bathrooms
• Attitude and helpfulness of staff
• Nearby transportation or attractions
• Overall comfort and safety

These insights can help you make a more informed decision and avoid surprises.

Plan a Stress-Free Stay with Path-Now

Booking accessible accommodation can feel overwhelming—but with the right tools and preparation, you can find a stay that is safe, inclusive, and comfortable for everyone in your group.

At Path-Now, we support families and individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities by connecting them to trusted service providers across California. Whether you need help finding inclusive travel options or ongoing disability support, our platform is here to make the process easier.

If you’re looking for more independence, flexibility, and control in how your disability services are provided, the Self-Determination Program (SDP) in California could be the answer.

What Is the Self-Determination Program?

The Self-Determination Program (SDP) is a statewide initiative in California that empowers individuals with developmental disabilities by giving them control over an individualized budget. This budget can be used to purchase the support and services that best match your goals, needs, and lifestyle—offering an alternative to traditional Regional Center services.

Through the SDP, individuals (and their families) work to develop a person-centered plan, which outlines personal goals, values, and the supports required to achieve them. The result? Greater flexibility, broader access to services, and a more customized path to independent living.

At Path-Now, we offer a robust directory of organizations and providers across California—many of which accept SDP funding. This makes it easier for you to explore programs that align with your unique needs and preferences.

The Role of an Independent Facilitator

To get the most out of your Self-Determination Program, many participants choose to work with an Independent Facilitator (IF). This person helps you create a thoughtful, well-structured spending plan that aligns with your personal goals while staying within budget.

Your Independent Facilitator can guide you through the planning process, connect you with appropriate services, and ensure your supports are working effectively for you.

With Path-Now, you can quickly find providers and programs that fit your budget, support goals, and vision for the future—whether or not you choose to work with an IF.

Benefits of the Self-Determination Program

Here’s how the SDP can improve your support experience:

• Personalized Support

SDP participants can design their own plans, tailoring services and programs to meet their specific needs. This leads to more effective, targeted care and encourages self-advocacy and independence.

• More Control and Choice

With SDP, you decide how your funds are spent. This provides greater flexibility in selecting services, choosing providers, and making changes as your needs evolve.

• Meaningful Life Improvements

Many individuals in the SDP experience better outcomes in areas such as employment, independent living, education, and community involvement—because the program is designed around what truly matters to you.

Take the Next Step with Path-Now

The Self-Determination Program is a powerful tool to help you live the life you want—with the supports you choose.\

At Path-Now, we make it easy to find qualified providers, local programs, and disability services that accept SDP funding. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or ready to build a complete support plan, we’re here to help.

Create your free profile today and take control of your support journey.

For individuals with developmental disabilities, finding the right support is essential—but far too often, it’s also unnecessarily difficult. Navigating California’s complex network of disability services can be overwhelming, frustrating, and time-consuming. That’s where Path-Now comes in.

At Path-Now, we believe access to the right services should be straightforward and inclusive. Our platform connects individuals and families with thousands of verified providers and organizations across California, making it easier than ever to find the support that truly fits your needs.

Common Challenges in Disability Services

Despite the growing awareness of disability rights and inclusion, there are still major barriers preventing people from accessing the care and services they need. These include:

1. Limited Funding and Access

Many disability service providers operate with restricted budgets, leading to long waitlists, limited availability, and even service rationing. Income-based eligibility requirements can also force individuals to choose between working and maintaining access to critical support.

At Path-Now, we help bridge this gap by making it easy to discover available and accessible support options in your local area—no matter your situation.

2. Complicated Application Processes

Navigating the application process for disability services can be daunting. Forms are often lengthy, confusing, and require extensive documentation—barriers that disproportionately affect those with intellectual or developmental disabilities. What’s worse, clear guidance and support through these processes is often lacking.

Path-Now simplifies this experience by offering an intuitive, user-friendly platform where users can explore all available options in one place, with clear, accessible information at every step.

3. Lack of Inclusive and Comprehensive Services

Not all disability services are equipped to meet the diverse needs of individuals with various intellectual and developmental disabilities. Mental health services, in particular, are often inaccessible. Additionally, proving eligibility for certain conditions can be difficult, which further limits access to appropriate care.

This lack of inclusivity creates major gaps in the system—and is one of the driving reasons why we built Path-Now.

How Path-Now Helps

The current system isn’t working for everyone—and we’re here to change that.

With Path-Now, you can:

• Create a free profile
• Match with local service providers based on your unique needs
• Access thousands of verified resources in one centralized location

Our goal is to remove the confusion, delay, and stress from finding disability support—making it easier to connect with the care and services you deserve.

When it comes to choosing the right college, parents are often overwhelmed by glossy brochures, school rankings, and admissions representatives. But if you’re raising a neurodivergent learner, you know the decision goes far deeper than test scores or acceptance rates. At MRM Education, we believe it’s not about the prestige of a school, it’s about how well a school supports your child’s unique learning needs, strengths, and future.

In this post, we’re diving into how to evaluate a college through a neuroinclusive lens. We’ll go beyond reputation and help you explore what really matters: the right fit, the right support, and the right mindset for your child.

1. Redefining What “Good School” Means

Before diving into your search, pause and ask yourself: What does a good school mean for my child?

Traditional school rankings can be tricky. They tend to prioritize traditional academic and cultural metrics. While these metrics have value, they don’t tell the whole story, especially if your child is autistic, has ADHD, struggles with executive functioning, or is navigating school as a culturally marginalized student. So what qualities does a ‘good school’ have?

A truly “good” school is one where your child is:

• Understood for who they are
• Supported in how they learn
• Encouraged to express themselves
• Not just included, but valued

Start by writing down what your child needs emotionally, socially, and academically. Now search for schools with this list in mind. It will be your compass and your north star as you decide which schools are best.

Pro Tip: Schools must pay to promote themselves via popular rankings lists. This means that many great options get overlooked.

2. Dig Into Their Support Services and Their Culture

Not all support programs are created equal. Two schools may have a “learning center,” but one might be a dynamic hub with tailored plans and one-on-one coaching, while the other just provides occasional test accommodations.

Every school will say they’re inclusive, but how can you really know? Inclusion isn’t just about having a special education department. True inclusion shows up in daily interactions, classroom setups, teaching styles, and leadership decisions.

When evaluating a school, ask:

• What academic accommodations are available—and how easy is it to access them?
• Ask to speak to the learning specialist or DSP counselor.
• Does the school offer executive functioning coaching, mental health counseling, or social-emotional learning?
• How does the school create or implement 504 Plans? Do families have a real seat at the table?
• Does the school use strength-based, people-first language?
• Do faculty and leadership reflect the diversity of the student body? Do students see themselves in the curriculum and classroom materials?

If possible, ask to sit in on a class or two. You can learn a lot by observing how students and faculty interact in real time.

Pro Tip: You want a school that sees inclusion as a value, not as a burden or check box. So seek out schools that practice active inclusion – these are the schools that are more likely to foster your child’s confidence and growth.

3. Talk to Other Families

One of the most powerful insights comes from families already walking the path. Reach out to parent groups, neurodivergent family networks, or multicultural community spaces to find families whose children attend the schools you’re considering.

Ask them:

• What has the real experience been like for your child?
• How responsive is the school when challenges arise?
• Would you choose the same school again?

Often, it’s these informal conversations that provide the clearest picture of a school’s true climate.

4. Trust Your Gut and Your Child’s

Never underestimate the power of intuition. The single most effective metric of success for a student choosing a school is “it just felt right.” If something feels off during a school visit, investigate. If your child lights up in one environment and shuts down in another, take note.

The right school doesn’t have to be perfect. No school will check every box. That’s okay. What matters most is finding a place where your child feels seen, safe, and supported. A school that’s willing to listen, learn, and grow with your family is worth far more than one with a high ranking but no real understanding of neurodiverse needs.

At MRM Education, our philosophy is that the best education is rooted in empathy and belonging. When you choose a school that honors who your child is, not who the system expects them to be, you’re setting them up for a future full of confidence and possibility.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a school is a big decision, especially when your child doesn’t fit into a traditional mold. But by asking the right questions, observing the school environment, and listening to your child’s needs and desires, you can find a space that nurtures both their potential and their humanity.

If you’re looking for more guidance or one-on-one support in navigating school choices for your neurodivergent or diverse learner, MRM Education is here to help. We offer personalized coaching, educational consulting, executive functioning coaching and advocacy to ensure your child has the tools and the team to thrive.

Visit MRM Education to learn more or schedule a consultation.

Because every child deserves a school that sees them clearly and supports them completely.

Meet the Authors:

Matt McGee is the founder of MRM Education and has worked as a college admissions specialist for the past 15 years, helping students gain entry into their “best-fit” college. He specializes in supporting neurodiverse students, student athletes and high achieving students.

Natasha M. Nurse, Esq. is the Managing Director, Partnerships & Business Operations at MRM Education. As a Neurodivergent parent, she leads efforts to build meaningful partnerships and foster strong community engagement.Through collaborative initiatives, innovative programming, and purposeful communication, Natasha helps strengthen connections between educators, families, and communities. Her passion for learning and authentic relationship-building fuels her mission to make education more equitable and impactful for all.

A social recreation program is an inclusive and supportive service that offers structured activities designed to encourage social development, promote independence, and enhance the overall well-being of individuals with and without disabilities. These programs play a vital role in helping individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) by fostering social interaction, building self-confidence, and creating a sense of belonging in a community setting.If you’re looking for the right social recreation program in your area, Path-Now provides access to thousands of trusted service providers across California, making it easy to find a program that matches your or your loved one’s specific needs and goals.

1. Builds Confidence

Social recreation programs empower individuals by offering diverse activities that promote inclusion, creativity, and participation. Whether it’s art, sports, drama, or outdoor play, these experiences help participants gain confidence in their abilities and feel valued in a safe, supportive environment.

Path-Now helps make this journey easier by matching clients with the right services near them. By using the platform, families and individuals can quickly locate recreation programs designed to encourage self-expression and confidence-building — all tailored to your unique profile.

2. Improves Social Skills and Development

Developing social skills is a critical component of many social recreation programs. These programs encourage teamwork, communication, and interaction through group activities that help participants understand social cues and foster relationships.

With Path-Now, you don’t have to navigate this alone. The platform uses the information you provide — including your diagnosis, treatment goals, and personal preferences — to recommend the most suitable social recreation programs in California. Whether you’re looking for group-based or one-on-one settings, Path-Now ensures your social development journey is supported from the start.

3. Personalized Support

One of the biggest advantages of high-quality social recreation programs is the personalized care they offer. Programs often include adaptive physical activities to enhance coordination and strength, as well as mental challenges like puzzles and games to support cognitive development. Many also feature music, art, and drama therapy — all of which are beneficial for reducing anxiety, building focus, and nurturing creativity.

Path-Now makes it easy to discover programs that align with your interests and therapeutic goals. Whether you’re looking for a sensory-friendly environment, specialized therapy services, or simply a fun and inclusive space to connect with others, Path-Now connects you to providers who understand and meet your individual needs.

Why Join a Social Recreation Program?

Getting involved in a social recreation program is a great way to build confidence, improve social skills, and find joy through structured, inclusive activities. From outdoor adventures to calming sensory rooms, these programs are thoughtfully designed to support the emotional and developmental needs of people with disabilities — all while making them feel part of a welcoming community.

And the best part? Path-Now makes the search simple and effective. By centralizing resources and provider information in one accessible platform, Path-Now empowers individuals and families across California to find IDD community services, therapy options, and recreational opportunities that are right around the corner.

Start Your Search with Path-Now

If you’re ready to find a local program that meets your unique needs, visit Path-Now today. Browse through a wide selection of social recreation programs and disability support services — all designed to help you or your loved one live a more connected and fulfilling life.

👉 Explore trusted providers and start your journey at path-now.com.

A summer camp for young people with disabilities is a great idea but it may be daunting trying to find the right one for individual needs. A summer camp is designed to make the guests feel welcome and safe in an enriching environment where amazing memories are made. Path-Now advertises an array of summer camps and services to help you find the most suitable one nearby.

The best summer camps in California provide an inclusive space for all and individualized, one on one therapy to ensure those with a developmental disability or intellectual disability are cared for while also having the best time. Here are 4 of the best summer camps in California:

1. Easterseals Southern California

Located at YMCA Camp Oakes in Big Bear, Easterseals camp is fully accredited through the American Camp Association and promises a standout camp experience for people with disabilities and exciting activities available for everyone.

Easterseals is a week-long camp filled with activities including crafts, swimming, dances, hiking, archery and a high and low ropes course. The minimum age is 14 and campers must have some communication skills. There is a counselor to camper ratio of 1:1 or 1:2 for more personalised support.

2. Camp Paivika

AbilityFirst Camp Paivika is situated in San Bernadino National Forest and offers summer overnight camps to both children and adults with disabilities including autism, Down Syndrome and ADHD. Campers will be sure to receive a traditional camp experience filled with fun and support.

Campers can try new things, make friends and activities are focused on building confidence and independence. Summer camp activities include swimming, adaptive sports such as baseball, bowling, an obstacle course and performing arts to ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy.

3. RAD Camp

RAD Camp stands for Rising Above Disabilities and is held at Van Guard University, Costa Mesa. This summer camp offers a week long program for both adults 22+ and children and young adults aged 5-21 (RAD Jr Camp) and lots of fun. The camper to counselor ratio is 1:1 to enhance a connection and friendship for an amazing camp experience.

Activities at RAD Camp include games, art, music, science and lots more as well as evening events of karaoke, dances and talent shows. Campers are well and truly cared for and will surely have the time of their life at RAD with memories to last a lifetime.

4. Camp I CAN

Located in two locations, San Diego and Carlsbad, Camp I CAN (Camp Including Children with Autism NOW) is operated by the Autism Society of San Diego in partnership with YMCA to ensure campers receive a fun camp experience that encourages social development.

This is a day camp for children aged 6-17 with ASD with various activities designed to target individual ability levels. Counselor to camper ratio is also 1:1 to offer tailored support and an exciting experience.

There are many inclusive summer camps in California that are specially designed to encourage people with disabilities to have fun with specialized activities tailored to individual needs. Explore the range of summer camps available to find the right one for your special needs.

Path-Now provides clients with a wide range of resources and IDD community services to ensure you can easily find the right disability support in California for your needs. Check out the list of summer camps available right here https://path-now.com/clients/.

Best Summer Camps in California for Individuals with Autism or Developmental Disabilities

Finding the right summer camp for a young person with autism or a developmental disability can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. A great summer camp should offer a safe, inclusive, and enriching environment where kids and adults alike can make memories, build friendships, and grow in confidence.

Path-Now is your go-to platform for discovering disability resources across California — including a curated selection of summer camps tailored to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Whether you’re looking for overnight camps, therapy-based programs, or inclusive day camps, Path-Now helps connect you with the right options nearby.

Here are four of the best summer camps in California for individuals with autism or developmental disabilities:

1. Easterseals Southern California

Located at YMCA Camp Oakes in Big Bear, the Easterseals summer camp is accredited by the American Camp Association and promises a standout experience for people with disabilities. This week-long overnight camp offers a mix of classic outdoor activities including crafts, hiking, archery, dances, and swimming.

• Age: 14+
• Ratio: 1:1 or 1:2 counselor to camper
• Notable Features: High and low ropes courses, personalized care, accessible programming

You can discover more camps like Easterseals through Path-Now, which allows you to browse by location, age group, and level of support needed.

2. Camp Paivika

Set in the beautiful San Bernardino National Forest, AbilityFirst Camp Paivika offers overnight camps for children and adults with disabilities including autism, Down syndrome, and ADHD. The camp experience is focused on fun, independence, and building confidence in a welcoming, supportive setting.

• Activities: Adaptive sports, swimming, performing arts, obstacle courses
• Support: Trained staff provide individualized care and attention
• Inclusion: Campers are encouraged to try new things and make meaningful connections

Not sure if Camp Paivika is the right fit? Path-Now makes it easy to compare multiple options based on your child’s unique needs and preferences.

3. RAD Camp (Rising Above Disabilities)

Held at Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, RAD Camp creates an unforgettable experience for individuals with disabilities, offering separate sessions for kids (ages 5–21) and adults (ages 22+). With a 1:1 counselor-to-camper ratio, every camper receives personal attention and care.

• Activities: Science, games, music, arts, karaoke, dances, talent shows
• Highlights: Strong emphasis on friendship and connection
• Duration Features:One week

If you’re searching for a camp with a deep sense of community and fun-filled programming, Path-Now can help you explore RAD Camp and other similar options across California.

4. Camp I CAN

Short for Including Children with Autism NOW, Camp I CAN operates in San Diego and Carlsbad and is run by the Autism Society of San Diego in partnership with the YMCA. This day camp supports children ages 6–17 with ASD and offers a wide range of engaging activities that foster social development.

• Format: Day camp
• Ratio: 1:1 camper support
• Activities: Structured to match individual ability levels

Through Path-Now, you can view all the details about Camp I CAN and find other autism-focused programs close to your community.

Find the Right Camp with Path-Now

There are many inclusive summer camps throughout California designed to support children and adults with autism or developmental disabilities. Whether you’re seeking a traditional camp experience, targeted therapies, or opportunities for social interaction, the right camp is out there — and Path-Now can help you find it.

Path-Now connects individuals and families to a wide network of disability services and community resources across California, including summer camps, recreational programs, therapy options, and more. Browse their client portal to find the ideal summer experience tailored to your or your loved one’s needs.

👉 Discover the full list of summer camps and services now at path-now.com

Medicare is a national health insurance program currently serving around 44 million Americans. While it is commonly associated with people aged 65 and older, individuals under 65 who have a qualifying disability or chronic condition and receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are also eligible. If you are approved for SSDI, you typically qualify for Medicare after a 24-month waiting period from the date of your first benefit check.

How to Enroll in Medicare?

For individuals with disabilities, the first step toward Medicare coverage is applying for Social Security Disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict criteria, generally requiring that your condition significantly limits your ability to work and is expected to last at least one year or result in death.

Once approved for SSDI, you are automatically enrolled in Medicare after a 24-month waiting period. On the 25th month of receiving benefits, you’ll be enrolled in Original Medicare, which includes:

• Part A – Hospital insurance
• Part B – Medical insurance

To further navigate these steps and access disability-related resources, platforms like Path-Now can be incredibly helpful. Path-Now is a dedicated resource hub designed to connect individuals with disabilities in California to services that fit their personal needs, including guidance on enrolling in Medicare and managing benefits.

The Benefits of Medicare in California

Medicare offers substantial support to Californians with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Under Part A and Part B, individuals gain access to hospital services, medical equipment, outpatient care, and preventive services.

Additionally, beneficiaries may opt to enroll in:

• Part C (Medicare Advantage) – Includes additional services like vision, dental, and wellness programs. Special Needs Plans (SNPs) under Part C are specifically tailored to those with chronic or disabling conditions.
• Part D – Prescription drug coverage to help reduce the cost of necessary medications.

The right Medicare plan ensures you receive accessible, quality care and services designed to meet your unique needs. Whether it’s finding the right healthcare provider, therapy service, or assistive device, Path-Now can connect you to personalized resources to help you live more independently and comfortably.

Medi-Cal

n California, Medi-Cal is the state’s Medicaid program offering additional support for low-income individuals, including people with disabilities. If you qualify for both Medicare and Medi-Cal (known as dual eligibility), Medi-Cal helps cover your Medicare premiums, deductibles, and services that Medicare doesn’t cover, such as long-term care and transportation.

Medi-Cal covers:

• Physician and specialist visits
• Hospital stays
• X-rays and lab tests
• Nursing home care
• Ambulance services (when providers accept Medi-Cal)

For many, navigating both Medicare and Medi-Cal can be overwhelming. That’s where Path-Now steps in — it simplifies the process of finding and accessing dual eligibility support, community services, and local programs that cater to your situation.

Discover Support with Path-Now

People with disabilities living in California are entitled to a range of benefits under Medicare and Medi-Cal. But finding the right services — from medical care to therapy, employment support, transportation, and recreational programs — can be complex.

That’s why Path-Now exists: to provide a one-stop platform where individuals with disabilities, families, and caregivers can explore tailored resources in their area. Whether you’re looking for help enrolling in Medicare, understanding your benefits, or seeking local support programs, Path-Now is here to guide you every step of the way.

Working with individuals with intellectual and development disabilities (IDD) or autism can be a challenge at times, but it is so rewarding. You can personally make a difference for individuals with disabilities by securing a position that offers various forms of disability support and resources to help bring positivity into their lives. Here at Path-Now, we provide access to a wide-range of disability services in California along with available job postings to ensure the IDD and autism community receive all the support they need from those in a position to help. Organizations can also use PathNow’s online platform to connect with clients and offer their services.

Intellectual and developmental disabilities vary for everyone meaning that each new day can come with its own set of challenges and rewards. Here are some of the rewards of working with the IDD community:

• • Making a difference

Choosing a career in special education can really make a difference to both your life and those with disabilities. You will provide emotional, physical and personal support to those with disabilities which will help improve their confidence and independence. The change that you will see over time will be hugely rewarding.

• • Constantly evolving and learning

Every day is a new experience when working with people with an intellectual disability which means that there is always more to learn. From everyday tasks to the specific needs of the people in your care, you will learn a range of new skills that will make the job feel so much more rewarding.

• • Emotional connection

Working with people who have a developmental disability is a challenge, however once you achieve that emotional connection with them it will all feel worth it. The bond that is created and nurtured helps their progression to independence and is equally rewarding for you knowing the impact you are capable of. You can share in their successes and provide support during disappointments to achieve a mutual understanding and lasting relationship.

• • Positive impact on lives

Providing special education programs and resources for support to those in need can also have a significant positive impact on their lives and yours too. Knowing that your work is helping people with autism and IDD succeed through hard times and thrive through self-independence can be a very rewarding feeling.

At Path-Now we advertise a variety of job opportunities to work with people with autism, ADHD and those with IDDs to provide disability support in California. Our Path-Now careers page and service offers you the opportunity to join professionals supporting the IDD community or explore the wider opportunities available with one of our supported organizations. From caregiver and house manager jobs to working with disability programs to provide the resources, you can make a difference with the right job suited for your skills and passion to help.

Our Path-Now platform connects people with disabilities with a wide range of over 9,600 service providers in California tailored to an individual’s specific needs. We are committed to always providing access to special education resources and disability programs in California which are matched to people with different needs as presented by their profile responses. Many service providers such as Adjoin include independent living services, day programs, and job coaching as well to ensure the IDD community is fully inclusive and that there are resources suitable for everyone.