Shared Living: A Unique Residential Habilitation Option
Overview Shared Living is a specialized service model under Residential Habilitation. In this setting, services are provided in a private home owned or leased by an independent contractor affiliated with our agency. Here, the Shared Living contractor and the participant live together, creating a supportive family environment that integrates the participant seamlessly into daily home and community life.
How Shared Living Works Shared Living is a continuous service designed to foster greater independence. Within this model, participants receive consistent assistance with health maintenance and supervision while learning practical skills. As a habilitative service, it incorporates comprehensive habilitation programs that are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. The goal is to empower participants by building their confidence and ability to manage daily tasks within their community.
Skills Development and Daily Living Our Shared Living program focuses on teaching adaptive daily living skills that promote self-sufficiency. Some of the key skills developed include:
- Personal Hygiene: Establishing routines for self-care and grooming.
- Laundry and Household Chores: Managing home responsibilities effectively.
- Meal Preparation: Planning and preparing nutritious meals that support healthy living.
- Community Engagement: Encouraging participation in community activities and events.
- Social and Leisure Skills: Building social connections and developing recreational interests.
Our Commitment At the heart of Shared Living is the commitment to provide a nurturing environment that not only delivers essential habilitative support but also enriches daily life. By learning these vital skills, participants gain the tools needed to live independently and fully experience the community of their choice.
This unique model of care ensures that every day is an opportunity for growth, connection, and enhanced independence.
PROCEDURE
Referral Process
At DEBO, we collect comprehensive information from every available source—including the individual, family members, service coordinators, external agencies, physicians, and more—to gain a full understanding of each person’s unique needs. Every referral comes complete with a detailed description of the funding available for placement. Using this collected information, our Individual Support Team collaborates with DEBO to conduct an initial evaluation, determining whether the referred individual is a good fit for our shared living services.
Potential Shared Living Placement
Once DEBO determines that a shared-living residential option is a viable and appropriate choice, we promptly notify our service coordination team and other key members. This collaborative step initiates a joint process to further explore and assess the placement and service provision options that best meet the individual's needs.
Matching Individuals with Placement
At DEBO, we place the freedom to choose directly in the hands of the individual receiving assisted services. They have the ultimate authority to select the placement that aligns best with their unique needs and aspirations. Working collaboratively with the individual's support team, we provide a range of thoughtful options and guide every step of the process to ensure a smooth and informed transition.
Agreement with the Shared Living Provider
Funding for services is determined on an individual basis through the State’s Objective Assessment Process, ensuring that each person receives the support they need. The individual directly makes room and board payments to the shared living provider. Please note that while shared living contractors are essential partners in service delivery, they do not serve as legal guardians. Instead, their responsibilities are established through a formal contractual agreement with Developmental Educational and Behavioral Outcomes (DEBO) to provide coordinated, high-quality services.
