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Housing Options for Special Needs Adults

Whether your loved one requires round-the-clock care and supervision or they are able to complete most tasks independently, there are different types of housing options available. Some of the options available include:

  • Independent Living Facilities- Independent living facilities are for special needs adults who are able to live independently with little to no assistance. There are often common areas, such as dining halls and recreational facilities to encourage socialization among residents. 
  • Group Homes- A group home is a community-style living option, with the supervision of a caregiver. Residents have a certain level of independence, with the support they need. Residents often share mealtimes and activities and can receive help with medication, daily living, and more.
  • Living with Parents or Family- Many adults with special needs live at home with their parents or other family members, but this is not always the best situation for them.
  • Nursing Homes- A nursing home can sometimes be the best option for an adult with special needs who requires around-the-clock medical care.
  • Assisted Living Facilities- Assisted living facilities include similar services offered in a group home, but the individual typically has their own unit. This is ideal for the individual who needs assistance with day to day activities but wants to maintain their independence.

Housing Options for Adults with Special Needs

  • 1. Independent Living Facilities + Group Homes

Independent living facilities and group homes for individuals with special needs are one of the most convenient and desirable options for adults with special needs and their families. In addition to having the ability to foster personal relationships with new friends and being able to visit with family and friends any time, group homes for those with special needs also allow one to experience independence within a safe, supportive and welcoming community environment.

ADVANTAGES OF INDEPENDENT LIVING FACILITIES

There are many advantages of special needs group homes, including the opportunity to meet new friends, experience new things, and live with independence and peace of mind. Special needs homes for adults also often offer both independent living and supervised living, depending on an individual’s level of care needed.

Whether he or she needs assistance with daily living skills such as taking medications, and other daily activities or they’re fully independent, they can enjoy the amenities of a group home designed to provide the opportunity for independence within the safety of a private community. Here are just a few reasons to consider touring a special needs group home.

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Personal Connections

Personal connections are another advantage of choosing a special needs group home for yourself or your loved one. While family is extremely important, the opportunity to meet others who share your experience and those who have similar hobbies and interests is a vital part of the intellectual growth opportunities for special needs individuals.

LIFE IN A SPECIAL NEEDS HOME

Activities

Group homes for special needs adults are by far the best provider of activities for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. The opportunity to participate in art lessons, sporting events, and fun social gatherings can be an overwhelmingly positive experience for a special needs adult who may have felt left out during childhood games and play dates or who has longed for the opportunity to be part of peer outings and activities.

ACTIVITIES FOR SPECIAL NEEDS ADULTS

Amenities

Group homes for special needs adults offer a variety of amenities for independent and supervised residents, including:

  • On-Site Medical Services
  • Enrichment Services
  • Counseling and Behavioral Services
  • Athletic Facilities and Amenities
  • Health and Fitness Centers
  • Nutrition Services
  • Continuing Education Classes
  • Libraries and Computer Labs
  • Community Activities
  • Group Outings
  • Opportunity to Work and Be Independent

Independent living facilities for special needs adults are the best option for those who seek to attain some level of independence while maintaining a routine and living within a safe space. In addition to having the opportunity to experience everyday activities like chatting with neighbors and going for a walk, special needs homes also allow individuals the chance to work. Working with one’s hands can not only provide an outlet for creativity, it can also encourage the understanding of being a necessary part of a group effort, increase self-esteem and self-confidence when seeing one’s completed work, and give a sense of purpose in providing a needed product or service.

JOBS FOR SPECIAL NEEDS ADULTS

Freedom to Move Around Campus Independently

Parents and family members want to give their loved one the best life possible, and normally, that includes searching for the least restrictive environment and will vary depending on the person's needs and abilities. In addition to the many opportunities The Baddour Center offers, freedom to move about campus independently is one of the most valued aspects of life among residents and their families.

Social Skills and Training for Special Needs Adults

At Baddour Center, residents also have the opportunity to learn academic and life skills that allow them to experience independence within a safe space. Baddour’s SAIL (Skills for Achieving Independent Living) program provides classroom and hands-on training for special needs adults who are interested in expanding their intellectual knowledge as well as those who seek to learn more about cooking, self-care, computer skills, and more.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SAIL PROGRAM

 

2. Living with Parents / Family

Living with parents or family members can be an ideal arrangement for adults with special needs. More special needs adults live at home than in any other environment, and it’s understandable that family and friends find comfort knowing that a loved one is provided for by those they know best. After all, a safe and nurturing environment is one of the most important ways to care for our loved ones.

If, however, time, energy, and other family commitments are making it hard to care for a loved one with special needs, group homes are a great option. In addition, if an individual with special needs seeks more independence and entertainment than the family home is able to provide, there are other options to consider. There are also disadvantages to special needs adults residing with family that you won’t encounter in group homes for adults with special needs, including:

  • Lack of Socialization and/or Social Skills
  • Lack of Independence and Intellectual Stimulation
  • Lack of Access to Professional Medical Services 24/7
  • Inability to Find Work Opportunities for Special Needs Adults
  • Inability to Cope with Daily Demands of Caring for a Special Needs Individuals
  • Lack of Time Needed to Devote to the Daily Care of a Special Needs Adult
  • Lack of Close Access to Behavioral and Social Professionals
  • Caretaker Burnout, Especially if No Additional Family and Friends are Able to Help
  • Inability to Travel and Take Vacations or Go on Date Nights

 

3. Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities

Like special needs homes for adults, nursing homes offer 24/7, on-site medical care and supervision, but because they are not specifically intended for individuals with special needs, you or your loved one may not receive the level of care or intellectual and physical stimulation and activities necessary for experiencing an independent and abundant life. If your family is unable to care for a loved one with special needs, a nursing home or assisted living facility can provide care and support, but only if a special needs home is not an option.

 

Special Needs Homes for Adults Near Me

There are hundreds of special needs homes for adults around the world, so chances are you and your loved ones will be able to find a home that provides convenient access for visiting on a regular basis. Baddour is the Mid-South’s premier group home for individuals with special needs. From state-of-the-art facilities specifically designed with special needs in mind to an abundance of amenities, activities, and opportunities to grow intellectually and emotionally, Baddour’s residents are able to experience independence and supportive care. To schedule a tour of Baddour to see for yourself how our residents enjoy life in a warm and welcoming community, contact us today.

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Posted by Cassie Smith at 16:02