Can Adults With Down's Syndrome Live Independently?

Living with Down’s syndrome certainly has its challenges, but for many they can still have some level of independence, including their living arrangements. More and more adults with Down’s syndrome are seeking that independence, especially since the life expectancy has risen dramatically to 60 years compared to only 25 years in the early 1980’s.

When considering housing opportunities, there are a number of factors to take into account, and it also depends on the level of support the individual will need. For this reason there are a variety of housing options now available, and support systems that can be tailored to each person’s needs.

Housing Options

Whilst some may prefer to stay in the familiarity and security of a family home, there are those with Down’s who would prefer to transition into their own housing, to gain more independence. This includes those who are undertaking tertiary study at a college or university, and those who are out in the workforce.

Private Housing

This is an option for those who are well equipped to make their own decisions. Having a lease agreement allows the individual to make decisions regarding choosing roommates, the furniture, and the routine of the household. This is not appropriate for some, as it does require a higher level of independence.

Homes That Are Vendor Owned

Otherwise known as group homes or a community residence, vendor owned homes are a good solution for those who need to further develop their independence. This does however mean that the individual or their family members have little say or control over the living environment. There is a higher level of support available though, which is supplied by the vendor.

READ October Awareness Month: Down Syndrome

Shared Living

This housing option is great for those with a good level of independence who still need the assistance or the security of having someone else in the home. Often this will involve someone with Down’s syndrome living with a person who doesn’t have a disability, just to give them that extra support they need. Sometimes the family will compensate the roommate, either financially or by other type of assistance for their role as a support person.

Adult Foster Homes

This is quite often the very last option a family will consider for their loved one with Down’s syndrome, but nonetheless, it is one option that is available. Moving an adult into foster care can be hard for the family as they think it means they failed in some way, but in fact, people with Down’s Syndrome have been known to thrive in another family unit simply because they learn a level of growth and independence that they often can’t learn within their own family unit because of the emotional ties of the family.

Considerating Housing Options For People With Down's Syndrome

There are other factors to consider when choosing a housing option for an adult with Down’s syndrome. You want to make sure they are going in to the right environment for them as an individual, so you need to look at their capabilities, funding, and what support is available.

Before transitioning to living in a home away from the family home, consider what tasks will require support such as:

• Cooking and preparing meals
• Budgeting
• Paying Bills
• Shopping
• Cleaning and tidying
• Personal grooming and care
• Transportation
• Social environment and activities
• Organizing and getting ready for work or school
• Routinely taking medication

In many places a Community Care Assessment can be undertaken to work out exactly what level and type of support will be necessary.

Funding

As the parent, if you are able to fund the living arrangement yourself that is fine. However, many local and government authorities have funding available to assist with the financial costs of an adult living in supported care. You will need to contact your local authorities to see what is available.

A Circle Of Support

Setting up a circle of support can greatly assist an adult with Down’s syndrome with the day to day tasks involved with living independently. A circle of support is generally made up of a group of people that know the person with Down’s syndrome well, and can include friends, family members, and other supporters. The group needs to meet regularly to discuss ways in which to support the person with achieving what they want to. The circle can be big or small, with some preferring smaller groups of three and others requiring a group of up to 10 people.

Support Workers

After an assessment, it may be deemed appropriate to have a support worker work with the adult who resides in their own home. How much support provided will depend on what is needed, and the funding that is available. For some with Down’s syndrome, they may only need a support worker to visit during the day, whereas others may need an overnight support worker.

Conclusion

As you can see, it is quite possible for an adult with Down’s syndrome to move out of the family home and reside in a variety of living situations, provided they have the right support available. This doesn’t mean that all adults with Down’s must live independently of course; it is entirely up to the individual and their personal needs.

READ Down syndrome: Prenatal Screening During Pregnancy

For an adult with Down’s syndrome, having the ability to live in their own home can be hugely rewarding. Every person dreams of growing up and living away from their parents, and this can be the same for a person with Down’s syndrome. After all, they are just like everyone else; they just need a bit more assistance than others. They can go on to study at a university level, they can hold down a job, and they can socialize.

Check with your local authorities, or with your medical practitioner to see what options are available in your area for an adult with Down’s syndrome and let them develop that sense of independence.