Home care services are not just for seniors! People of any age with chronic illness or disabilities can benefit as well. People with Down syndrome, autism, and other intellectual and developmental disabilities can live and work successfully in their communities. These days adults with special needs have a wide range of options to live more independently than ever.
Where can these individuals get the assistance and support they need?
In many cases, parents of adults with special needs continue to provide ongoing care and support for their loved ones. Many resources are available for those caring for someone with special needs, and knowing the selection of services offered can help reduce the stress of carrying such a heavy burden alone.
Home Care Assistance
Including home care in your plan can significantly benefit you and your child. Care providers can assist with daily living activities. They can also provide emotional support and a regular companion for social interaction and other fun activities.
Benefits of Home Care for Adults with Special Needs
Improves Quality of Life
Your loved one with special needs can also live a rich and fulfilling life. Whether going to work, visiting friends and family, or participating in recreational activities, we find meaning in living independent lives. Professional caregivers can support adults with disabilities to participate fully in their communities.
Home caregivers can assist with things like:
- Household tasks
- Personal care and hygiene
- Recreational and community activities
- Managing medications
- Groceries and errands
- Meal preparation
- Assistance with mobility and ambulation
The proper support can provide family caregivers with a much-needed break which can help you find the right balance between providing care and promoting independence for your loved one. Balance and stability are crucial for adults with special needs to continue living independently at home.
Incorporates Community Inclusion
Integrating adults with special needs into the community is the norm today. There are many home-based and community options, such as:
- Adult group homes
- Living independently (with or without support)
- Living in-home with family
- Adult foster homes
- Adult Day Programs
Many families find that home care helps them support their special needs loved ones. Home care often provides the necessary assistance for individuals to live independently in their community or stay in the family home.
Parents generally provide the majority of support for children with special needs, and many continue to support their children into adulthood. Depending on what is available in your community, services like job coaching, vocational rehabilitation, day programs, and community transition programs may be accessible.
Family caregivers may need a break to get some rest, which would be a time to consider live-in home care professionals who can help your loved one prepare for the day, assist with mobility, and help out with transportation to these programs. You and your loved ones will have peace of mind knowing that our live-in caregiver is always there to respond to emergencies and provide good companionship.
Supports Autonomy and Independence
Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities are still adults who deserve to have their wishes to live an independent lifestyle respected just like anyone else. For many parents, even ones that are aware of the benefits of increased autonomy, this transition can be a challenging one.
Celebrate independence! You can do this by focusing on your loved one’s strengths and skills and working with them to learn the best supports and services. Notice what they can do independently or with a home care provider who supports them and encourages these changes.Â
There will be many opportunities for you to care for your loved one. As a caregiver, it is recommended to adapt your role to allow them room to grow and experience as many different aspects of life as possible.
