There are some distinct advantages to staying at home or
independently with in-home supports.
1. More Freedom-
Living at home or independently is one of the least restrictive options
available. The primary goal in most states is to provide support in an
environment that is as close to the rest of the population as possible. Clients
living independently or home are not bound by the schedules of other people as
they would be in a group home. Staffing issues in group homes can also limit
the ability to go out or participate in community activities when desired.
2. Privacy- Living
independently offers more privacy. Residents in group homes often share bathrooms
and some even share bedrooms. Of course this also occurs at home but at least its
family and a more comfortable environment.
Group home residents share pretty much everything with strangers and
staff that can change daily. Living in a group home also restricts opportunities
for privacy with significant others and friends.
3. Less Conflict- This
is a simple concept. Living with fewer
people reduces the amount of conflict. Living
alone can be a good option for those who prefer complete independence with only
minimum or no supports.
4. Healthier
Environment- Clients who live at home or independently tend to live in a
healthier environment. Living with other
people often increases the likelihood of getting sick from other residents.
Sharing bathrooms and living in close quarters with others usually leads to
rapid spreading of viruses and other illnesses.
Personal Assistance
Personal Assistance is often provided to individuals with Medicaid Waiver
funding in place. Personal assistance offers support with daily
activities such as bathing, getting dressed, and personal care. This service
can be put in place to help families keep their loved ones at home and relieve
the family some of the workload.
In-Home Support
In-home support services are almost self- explanatory.
In-home services are often provided to individuals who live at home with family
or on their own. In-home support staff typically serves adults with mental
health and/or intellectual disabilities. The staff can help the client develop
independent living skills and community integration. They can help with some
training such as cooking, shopping and money management. These services are also funded through Medicaid
Waiver.
Support Living
Services
Supportive living services are primarily designed to support
people who live in their own apartment or other independent living arrangement.
They typically provide assistance with accessing community resources such as
grocery shopping, going to the bank, paying bills, and learning other independent
living skills.
Mental Health Support
Services
Mental health support staff help ensure that the client is
taking medications as prescribed as well as attending counseling and medication
management appointments. They also assist with the basics like shopping,
budgeting, and maintain their housing. Mental health supports are different
from the previous services in that the individual being served must have a
mental health diagnosis and have a history of psychiatric hospitalization. Mental
health supports are put in place to help individuals maintain in the community and
prevent relapse and hospitalization.
