Residential Planning for the Future

Step Two: Understanding Residential Issues

One Possibility: Supported Living
In the hope of gaining some control over their lives and of taking part in their communities, increasing numbers of people with disabilities are opting to live in homes of their own. Some choose to live alone, while receiving supportive services and help from a personal care assistant, assistive technology, or a roommate. Some individuals purchase their own homes; others rent apartments. Still others choose to remain in their family homes after their parents are gone. Regardless of the chosen arrangement, a growing number of adults with developmental disabilities are proving that they can be successful. With the right type of setting and adequate levels of supports, they live in ways that allow them to be included in the lives of their communities. Starting with 200 clients in 1988, by 1996 there were 1,500 people in Florida receiving supported living services. Others have since followed.

The option of supported living allows a person with a disability to live in--and become integrated into the--local community. Supported living is actually one in a category of services that are chosen by or for an individual. It provides the ongoing supports necessary for the person to live in his or her own home. Supported living is about control and personal choices. It occurs in your own home and community and gives you the chance to choose where, how and with whom you live.

This service is offered around the country, with some differences from state to state. In the State of Florida you are eligible for supported living if you: 1) are 18 years or older; 2) are a client of the Developmental Service Program; 3) want to live in your own home; and, 4) need ongoing supports and services to do so. An eligible person requesting supported living is not expected to demonstrate total independence or attain a predetermined level of skills. Even individuals with the most severe or complex disabilities can live in their own homes, if adequate support is provided. Supported living does not force you to fit into the system. Rather, the idea is to tailor supports and services to the needs of the individual. It transfers control from the service provider to you.

Supported living is different for everyone, just as every person is different. Individuals in supported living can live all over the community, in rented/leased homes & apartments or in homes they own, and receive the training and assistance necessary to maintain a private home.

Supported living separates housing from support. A person doesn't have to live in a particular area to get needed supports and services. The intensity of the supports and services provided are designed to meet your the individual's requirements. If on arrangement doesn't work, another is tried. Supported living involves letting individuals assume increasingly more control over their own lives.

A supported living coach is the professional who will enable your loved one to live in his/her own home or apartment by providing the hlep and training necessary. In Florida, the service of supported living coaching generally is provided under the Developmental Disabilities Program, Home and Community Based (Medicaid) Waiver. Supported living coaches work either for themselves (independent contractors) or for disability companies (service providers). A coach receives special training for the job, and must have a college degree and prior experience in the disability field. The supported living coach assists with finding and inspecting housing, and assures that it meets HUD quality standards.

• finding an affordable house or apartment
• setting up and maintaining a household
• using a bank and managing money
• planning and preparing meals
• using public transportation
• shopping for groceries, clothing and household necessities
• taking part in leisure and recreational activities and other life skills.

Functions of a supported living coach are teaching new skills in the context of everyday life and helping with tasks; doing things with or for your loved one. Some people in supported living may need help with certain activities or need things done for them. A coach may also help by locating community resources and natural supports for your loved one.

Your support coordinator is your family's main contact with the developmental services system. It is the responsibility of your support coordinator to be sure you understand all available residential options and possibilities that can be created for you.

If you choose supported living, your support coordinator is responsible for:

Just as every person's life circumstances are unique, his/her supported living arrangement will be unique also. Some people need only the assistance of a supported living coach. Others need the kind of intensive help with daily tasks that can only be provided by a personal care assistant or a homemaker. Still others have more complex needs that involve several service providers along with the coach. The support plan that will specify and authorize those services that your loved one needs will be as unique as that individual.

Do you know what affordable housing really means? Or the various agencies, services and statutes that protect a person with a developmental disability? Do you understand the terms used in supported living? If you answered NO to any of these questions, please see the Residential Options "Definitions" section by Clicking Here.