Finding the right support for an adult with an intellectual or developmental disability can feel overwhelming. Families often have questions about housing, daily support, community involvement, Medicaid waivers, and long-term care options. They want to know their loved one will be safe, supported, and have opportunities to live a meaningful life.
For more than 50 years, Cedar Lake has helped families throughout Kentucky answer those questions with compassionate, person-centered services designed specifically for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded by Louisville-area parents seeking better opportunities for their loved ones, Cedar Lake has grown into the largest private provider of residential and community-based services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Kentucky.
Supporting Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Every individual has unique strengths, goals, interests, and support needs. Because of this, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to disability services.
At Cedar Lake, services are designed to help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities experience lives filled with purpose, belonging, growth, and community connection. Our mission focuses on providing compassionate, capable care that helps individuals experience abundant possibilities throughout adulthood.
Whether an individual requires 24-hour support, assistance with daily living skills, community-based programming, or opportunities for greater independence, Cedar Lake offers a continuum of services that can adapt as needs change over time.
Residential Services for Adults with Disabilities
One of the most important decisions families make is determining the right living environment for their loved one.
Cedar Lake offers multiple residential options designed to meet varying levels of support needs, ranging from independent living opportunities to comprehensive 24-hour care. These services allow individuals to live in environments that promote both safety and personal growth.
Independent Living and Semi-Independent Living
Some individuals desire greater independence while still benefiting from occasional support and guidance.
Independent and semi-independent living options help adults maintain their own living space while receiving assistance tailored to their needs and goals. These arrangements encourage self-determination, responsibility, and community involvement.
Supported Living and Staffed Residences
For individuals who need more regular assistance, Cedar Lake offers supported living and staffed residential homes.
These settings provide support with daily routines while helping individuals remain active members of their communities. Residents are encouraged to participate in household activities, build relationships, and pursue personal goals while receiving the support necessary for success.
Staffed residence ratio is 1:3.
Group Homes
Cedar Lake Group Homes are designed for individuals with mild to moderate disabilities and offer a semi-independent, 24-hour staffed environment for up to six residents. In these homes, individuals receive guidance and training in daily living skills, transportation, leisure and recreational activities, and benefits coordination. The goal is to foster independence while ensuring the support needed to thrive in daily life.
Group home ratios are 1:8 by regulation but are 1:6 at Cedar Lake.
Family Home Provider Services
Some individuals thrive in a family-style setting. Cedar Lake’s Family Home Provider program connects adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities with carefully selected providers who open their homes and provide ongoing support and care. Family home provider ratios can be up to 1:3.
Specialized Care for Individuals with Higher Support Needs
Some adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities require more intensive medical, behavioral, or therapeutic support.
For these individuals, Cedar Lake offers Intermediate Care Facility (ICF) services through several specialized settings, including Cedar Lake Lodge, Park Place, and Sycamore Run. These programs provide 24-hour nursing support, therapeutic services, behavioral support, and individualized care plans designed around each person’s unique needs.
Cedar Lake Lodge has provided specialized care for adults with significant support needs since 1974 and continues to support individuals with complex medical and behavioral challenges. Cedar Lake has also expanded its specialized care services over the years to provide more community-based options while maintaining high levels of support.
Cedar Lake Enrichment Center: Building Skills and Community Connections
Meaningful days are just as important as meaningful homes.
The Cedar Lake Enrichment Center provides a person-centered day program that focuses on community engagement, skill development, recreation, education, and personal growth. Participants choose activities that align with their interests and goals while building relationships and increasing community involvement.
Activities may include:
- Volunteer opportunities
- Community outings
- Arts and creative programs
- Exercise and wellness activities
- Educational classes
- Social events
- Life skills development
The Enrichment Center helps individuals strengthen communication skills, develop confidence, practice daily living skills, and build meaningful connections with others. Vocational and pre-vocational opportunities are also available to help individuals explore interests and develop skills that support greater independence.
Daily Living Skills and Community Support
Independence often begins with mastering everyday tasks.
Cedar Lake offers services that help individuals develop practical skills needed for daily life. These supports may focus on:
- Personal care routines
- Household responsibilities
- Meal preparation
- Community participation
- Money management
- Social skills
- Decision-making
- Healthy living habits
By building these skills over time, individuals gain confidence and greater control over their daily lives.
Understanding Kentucky Medicaid Waiver Services
Many Cedar Lake services are accessed through Kentucky Medicaid waiver programs, including the Michelle P. Waiver and Supports for Community Living (SCL) Waiver.
These programs help fund services such as:
- Residential support
- Community living supports
- Day programs
- Personal assistance
- Homemaker services
- Transportation
- Behavioral supports
Because waiver programs often have eligibility requirements and long waiting lists, families are encouraged to begin exploring available options as early as possible. There are additional Medicaid waivers that are available to families that are not accepted at Cedar Lake.
A Trusted Resource for Louisville-Area Families
Since 1970, Cedar Lake has remained committed to helping adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities experience lives filled with opportunity, dignity, and connection. Today, the organization supports individuals across multiple Kentucky counties through residential services, community-based programs, daily living supports, and specialized care options.
For families searching for intellectual disability services in Kentucky are valued, encouraged, and empowered to pursue lives of meaning and purpose.
Because every person deserves more than care. They deserve opportunities to belong, grow, and thrive.
