Remote Supports continues to grow across HCBS systems as a flexible option for people with I/DD who want more independence without losing access to dependable, human support. But there are still many misconceptions about what Remote Supports actually is. Here’s a clear, person-centered look at what the service provides—what it doesn’t—and why it’s helping people live safely and confidently on their own terms.
What Remote Supports Is
A Support Service — Not a Gadget
At its core, Remote Supports is the delivery of real-time support from a trained professional located somewhere else. Support is provided through agreed-upon devices—phones, tablets, sensors, and other assistive technology—but the heart of the service is still human connection.
Remote Supports is about:
- Coaching
- Problem-solving
- Emotional support
- Safety
- Relationship-building
—not about installing cameras or alarms and calling it “care.”
A Person-Centered, Planned Service
Every Remote Supports configuration is built around the individual: their goals, preferences, communication style, and risks.
It is integrated into the Individual Support Plan (ISP), including:
- When staff check in
- What alerts they respond to
- How they communicate with the person
- How the support circle is involved
Nothing is generic or “plug and play.” It’s individualized and clearly defined, just like in-person support.
A Flexible Way to Receive Support
Remote Supports can stand alone or blend with traditional staffing.
For some individuals, it’s used overnight; for others, during evenings or moments when they want privacy but still need a safety net.
Flexibility is built into the model so support fits the person—not the other way around.
What Remote Supports Isn’t
It Isn’t “Just Cameras Watching People”
Remote Supports is not constant surveillance, and most plans do not use video at all.
When cameras are part of a person’s plan, they are:
- Agreed upon by the individual and team
- Limited to specific areas
- Able to be turned off or adjusted
- Used only for the agreed-upon purpose
Remote Supports is active, human support—not passive monitoring.
It Isn’t a Way to Reduce Necessary Support
Remote Supports should never take the place of hands-on care when a person needs it.
It replaces or supplements staff only when the person’s skills, technology, and backup supports make it a safe, least-restrictive option.
The goal is better support—not less support.
It Isn’t “One Size Fits All”
No two Remote Supports plans look the same.
Some people use it for short check-ins.
Some for overnight safety.
Some as a step toward living alone.
Some not at all.
If it doesn’t align with someone’s needs, preferences, or goals, it should not be used.
How Remote Supports Helps People With I/DD
More Independence With a Safety Net
People can cook, clean, manage routines, invite friends over, or simply enjoy quiet time—while knowing that help is just a call or alert away.
This balance supports dignity of risk while reducing preventable emergencies.
- Growth in Confidence and Self-Advocacy
- Because support happens through conversation instead of constant physical presence, individuals:
- Make more choices
- Solve problems independently
- Build communication skills
- Take more ownership of their routines
This often leads to greater confidence and fewer reminders over time.
Relief for Families, Providers, and the System
Remote Supports helps the entire support ecosystem:
- Families gain peace of mind.
- Providers stabilize staffing.
- Case managers get another HCBS-compliant tool to address high caseloads and waitlists.
When done well, Remote Supports moves everyone toward the same outcome: people with I/DD living in their own homes, on their own terms, supported—but never limited—by technology and trusted relationships.
