Written by: Tracy Waller, MPH, Esq.
The First Amendment of the Constitution protects freedom of the press, sometimes called freedom of the media, as a basic right. This means that people are free to communicate information and express opinions through print and electronic media.
Continue readingBy: Johanne Mayer
When you speak directly to the patient, it shows the person that they are heard and that they matter. This is important in having respectful, inclusive care. Support people should definitely have a role, but they should not replace the patient’s voice unless, of course, the patient requests it or is unable to communicate.
Continue readingAuthor: Lauren Silverstone
Director of Housing Support Services at Maryland Inclusive Housing
Housing in the United States remains largely out of reach for adults living on Supplemental Security Income (SSI). As of early 2026, approximately 7.4 to 7.5 million Americans rely on SSI, a federal benefit that supports individuals who are older, have a vision impairment, or have a qualifying disability and very limited income. In 2026, the maximum federal SSI payment is $994 per month for an individual and $1,491 per month for an eligible couple. About one-third of SSI recipients also receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) (learn more about the difference between SSI and SSDI benefits); however, even when these benefits are combined, income levels remain far below what is needed to afford stable, market-rate housing in most communities. These financial limitations continue to make housing for adults with disabilities especially difficult to obtain and sustain in many communities. Additional income from work or nonwork income like alimony, veterans benefits, and pensions are also counted against monthly SSI payments.
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The National Center for Disability, Equity, and Intersectionality is funded by the Administration for Community Living through funding opportunity number 90NCDE0001-01-00. This website formerly included the work of the Center for Dignity in Healthcare for People with Disabilities.