CMS SOM App. J, Tag W136

community group activities;

Guidance §483.420(a)(11)

Clients should be offered the opportunity to participate in various types of activities in the

community (e.g., going to grocery stores, hair salons, restaurants, places of worship,

pharmacies, community meetings and events) based on their interests and choices. The facility

must make accommodations for physical issues such as hearing impairment and mobility

limitations. In addition, clients should be taught the applicable skills to participate in their

choice of activities to the fullest extent of their abilities.

It is not acceptable for all client activities to be provided in the facility.

When a client is identified to be on restriction from community integration opportunities,

interview clients, families, legal guardians and staff to determine if due process was afforded for

this restriction and whether the restriction is included in the IPP.

In the event of a court placement that restricts community access, due process does not apply.

There should be evidence that the facility assists and encourages all clients, regardless of

functioning levels, to have input into the decisions on community integration activities. It is not

acceptable to require clients to attend unwanted activities due to staffing considerations.