Supported Living Services

Skills Supported Living Services assists individuals with disabilities so they can develop the skills needed to live on their own.

Supported Living Services enhance the ability of an individual to lead a self-determined lifestyle by providing the support and information necessary to build self-esteem, assertiveness, create a sense of empowerment and allow an individual to make to make informed choices.

Supported living provides both in-home and in-community assistance with daily activities, such as medication.

Supported living provides assistance with daily activities, such as medication education.

In-Home and In-Community Support

Supported Living visits are available to individuals who have developed or are trying to develop skills to live independently within the community — whether living with family or in a more independent, nonfamily setting — based on the individual’s wants and needs.

Skills professionals support individuals in learning how to improve daily living skills, develop relationships, gain access to community resources, and set and pursue personal goals, and provide emotional support through problem solving and decision making.

This service can be provided for people living with their family or independently.

Common Areas of Support

Medical — Address all aspects of medical concerns, such as scheduling, attending and transporting individuals to medical appointments. Medication education and support is also provided as needed.

Community Connections — Involve individuals in various community activities in order to broaden opportunities and relationships, including volunteer experiences

Supported living assists individuals with budget-related issues, such as saving to purchase larger items, bill paying, and shopping.

Financial Development — Support individuals with budget-related issues, such as saving to purchase larger items, banking, bill paying and shopping.

Maintaining a Household — Basic support with cleaning, laundry and general maintenance concerns

Emotional Support — Foster communication and problem-solving skills between the individual and those involved in his or her life.

Transportation — Explore public transportation options, such as training about local bus routes, using a taxi, and/or local van service.

Health and Safety — Address issues of health, nutrition and exercise, teach menu planning, food shopping, food preparation skills, and personal care as well as community, home and personal safety.

Self-Advocacy — Encourage and support individuals to speak for themselves and make their own choices.

Other program areas can be discussed and tailored to meet the individual’s wants and needs.

Referral Procedures

Skills Home and Community Support Services are designed to address individual needs. Following a referral for services, an interview to determine the individual’s wants and needs is held with the individual and/or family. Once authorization for service is approved, a start date is set based on the results of the referral information and the interview.

A Home and Community Support Assistant provided by Skills will work with the individual to encourage greater independence and to enhance his or her ability to live and participate in the community. The individual’s team meets regularly to review progress, explore new opportunities and problem solve.

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To learn more about Skills Supported Living Services in your area, contact the program nearest you: