1. (a)

   1. (1) The Individualized Plan for Elders (IPE) is a personal schedule for consumers receiving services from the OIB program.
   2. (2) The IPE is jointly developed between the consumer and/or representative, as appropriate, and VR counselor.

   3. (3)

      1. (A) The IPE is considered a limited partnership and can be changed by an amendment during the rehabilitation process.
      2. (B) All amendments require the signature of both the consumer and the VR counselor.

2. (b)

   1. (1) The individualized plan must be developed within ninety (90) days of eligibility determination based on assessment results and client input.
   2. (2) The plan should identify the services that will enable the client to achieve their designated goal.
   3. (3) Both initial and amended plans must be signed by the client and the counselor prior to beginning services and uploaded into AWARE.
   4. (4) The IPE should be for at least (6) six months to ensure adequate time to deliver services.
   5. (5) The signature date in AWARE and the signature date on the IPE must match.

3. (c)

   1. (1) The IPE should define:

      1. (A) The consumer’s specific independent living goals; and
      2. (B) How progress will be measured.
   2. (2) Each service on the IPE should be designed to assist the consumer in achieving that goal.

   3. (3) Services on the IPE must clearly state:

      1. (A) Their specific relation to the IPE goal;
      2. (B) How progress in that service will be measured; and
      3. (C) How that will result in a successful goal for the consumer.

4. (d)

   1. (1) Once the IPE is signed, the signature date should be placed on the plan in AWARE.
   2. (2) This will move the case into service status.
   3. (3) Once in service status, the consumer can begin to receive all services on the plan.

5. (e)

   1. (1) Cases should not remain in service longer than one (1) year from the date the consumer signed the IPE.
   2. (2) Supervisory approval is required if it becomes necessary to extend this timeframe.

6. (f)

   1. (1) The IPE Development Narrative should be entered into AWARE at the time the IPE is signed.
   2. (2) This narrative documents the need for the services and how the services will assist the consumer in accomplishing their goal and achieving independence.

Codification Notes: “OIB” means older individuals who are blind. "VR" means vocational rehabilitation.