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How Group Homes For Developmentally Disabled Adults Operate

By Edna Booker


There are a significant number of persons in the general population living with developmental disability. Illnesses commonly associated with these disabilities include cerebral palsy, Down syndrome and autism among others. A personal with mental disability finds it difficult to live comfortably with the general population because of the special needs that they need. Cases of stigmatisation are common. There are many group homes for developmentally disabled adults that may help with these cases.

One of the biggest challenges of developmental abnormalities is that the affected persons are often unable to take care of themselves. Personal grooming, feeding and taking care of day to day personal needs are a major challenge particularly for the most severe cases. This makes them heavily dependent on family members.

The duration of stay in the homes is variable; it may be a fixed duration or an undefined period of time. The main determinants of the length of stay are the severity of disability as well as rate of response to training. The main focus should on improvement rather than duration.

One of the biggest determinants of success is the maintenance of a healthy family relationship and to ensure that the affected individual gets as much family support as possible. A significant proportion of families tend to use the programs as a way of getting rid of a disabled person. This should not be the case. There should be regular visits to the home so as to show support for the family member.

Many different types of homes exist and choosing the best may be a bit difficult. There is need to compare several of them before settling on your final decision. All group homes needed to be licenced to operate. The authority that issues this licence is the Department of Human Services. If the affected individual has a coexisting medical condition as is the case at times, ensure that they are enrolled in a facility where treatment will take place.

The residential homes are required by law to have day activity centres that engage the occupants and help with mental training. They should also have opportunities for vocational job trainings or job placement services. This is aimed at achieving the main objective of integrating the individual into the community once they live the home. Ensure that the home that you chose has these services.

Most persons living with developmental disability are just as talented as everyone else. The only challenge is that they do not have an opportunity to discover these talents. Enrolling into the homes provides this opportunity and opens up a world of opportunities to the disabled individuals. Some even secure normal employment and can work alongside their colleagues albeit with some challenges.

Adults suffering from developmental disability are often a big challenge to their families. Their dependency on other people is a risk for conflicts within the family setting. Choosing a group home does not necessarily mean you are rejecting them. Rather, it is chance to help them unleash their potential.




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