jeudi 2 juillet 2015

Some Facts On Group Homes For Developmentally Disabled Adults

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 that persons with the developmental disability is the fact that they cannot take care of simple tasks relating to personal care. This includes grooming, feeding, using the toilet and other survival skills. There is a heavy dependence on other family members which may result in inconveniences and friction among the 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.

The success of the program is determined by, among many other factors, a healthy relationship within the family. Sending a person to a group home should not be a way of getting rid of them. It is important to organise regular visits as a show of solidarity. Additionally, these visits are an opportunity to assess any gains that have been made. Identifying an accessible group home becomes very important in this regard.

When choosing a group home, there are a number of things to look out for. Make sure that your choice of home is fully equipped with enough facilities. Some patients may have a coexisting medical condition that has to be treated at the facility. You will be well advised to compare several of them before settling on your choice. More importantly, the home must have a licence to operate that is issued by the Department of Human Services.

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.

Developmental disability is usually associated with significant limitation in carrying out simple tasks. Some of these tasks are essential for survival meaning that people with the disabilities often need assistance to carry them out. Sending such a person to a group home should be viewed positively as it provides an opportunity to lead a better life.




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