Independent Living for Adults With Disabilities: Steps to Get Started Through Your Regional Center
Many adults with disabilities dream of living independently — in their own apartment, shared home, or family house. With the right support, independent living is absolutely achievable in California.
Here’s how to get started through your Regional Center.
Step 1: Meet With Your Service Coordinator
Tell your coordinator you want Supported Living Services (SLS) or greater independence. They will:
Review your goals
Assess your support needs
Determine eligibility
Update your Individual Program Plan (IPP)
Step 2: Choose a Living Setting
You can live in:
Your own apartment
A shared home
A family home
A roommate arrangement
The choice is yours.
Step 3: Get a POS Authorization
The Regional Center issues a Purchase of Service (POS) to fund the support hours you need.
This covers:
Support staff
Daily living assistance
Community activities
24/7 on-call help
Step 4: Get Matched With an SLS Provider
Providers like Feel At Home Services support clients referred by VMRC, NBRC, or SARC.
Step 5: Create a Person-Centered Support Plan
You meet with the provider to design:
Daily routines
Safety plans
Community goals
Life skills to develop
Preferred caregiver style
Step 6: Begin Services
Support can start quickly once your plan is approved.
Independent living is a journey — and the right team ensures you succeed.
