State proposes 'retirement and leisure' day habilitation for some adults with IDD

Robin Lohman, assistant IDD director, presented a proposed retirement and leisure day habilitation service during a KDADS modernization webinar and said it is intended for retired participants or those who need or want a less stimulating environment.

Lohman said the service would provide structured, meaningful activities that emphasize social connection, health and wellness, and senior‑related activities. "They should have the opportunity to engage in meaningful pursuits and must provide a supportive environment that fosters a high quality of life," she said, describing core components including peer engagement, recreational activities, and wellness programming.

Lohman offered two case examples: Marcus, a 72‑year‑old with moderate IDD who would participate in volunteer activities, men's groups and modified physical activity; and Lisa, 38, with mild IDD and anxiety who would transition from traditional day services to a calmer, wellness‑focused environment with art‑based workshops and low‑impact movement.

During questions, Camille, a webinar participant, asked whether existing senior centers in Sedgwick County could be used to integrate participants with non‑disabled peers. Lohman said she would "look into it" and acknowledged scenarios where community senior centers could be appropriate, while adding that it depends on the individual’s needs and local arrangements.

Shelby, another participant, asked what service definition would map to current billing code T2021 after unbundling. State staff said they do not yet have a finalized answer and that code attachments will depend on the finalized service definitions. Officials repeatedly emphasized that these webinars are part of early stakeholder engagement, not final regulatory definitions, and that more details will be provided as service definitions, rate‑setting, and grants are finalized.

Participants raised practical concerns about ensuring adequate behavioral supports, staff capability, and transportation to support outings and community integration. Lohman and other staff said those supports are interconnected with person‑centered planning, provider capacity, and future resource allocation discussions rather than solved by a single policy change.

Lohman said the retirement and leisure service continues a senior‑related activity component that exists in the current IDD waiver and that the state plans additional stakeholder engagement and meetings before any waiver amendment or coding changes are finalized.