Sometimes staff are asked if they are working in a home they would be happy and proud to live in. For whatever the reason, the answer is often "no." Some of the reasons they give is that they wouldn't want staff to tell them what to do, they would want more choices in foods, and they would want more opportunities to do what they want. I can see their points but not entirely. Really, the potential benefits of living in a group home significantly outweigh the drawbacks.
When the young adult sees that their family and friends are moving out from their home of upbringing, they want to, also. They want the same life for themselves that others around them have. Group homes give them a opportunity to start a life of their own.
Group homes are active and fun. There are activities planned in the home and outside the home, daily. There are always friends around and always staff to lend a hand. Celebrations are usually big; there are lots of parties and holiday gatherings.
The food is delicious, varied, and at the same time, healthy. The meals are based on what the individuals say they like and they shop for the groceries themselves. Dinner is a big, communal event every night with everyone helping to prepare the food, set the table, pass the dishes, wipe the table, and load the dishwasher.
After dinner and on weekends, there are usually many opportunities to engage in hobbies and sports events either at home or out in society. They paint, play bingo, write, join a basketball league, swim, play guitar, collect trains, watch a baseball game - whatever they want or like to do.
If someone likes things quiet, they can go to their bedroom and watch a movie, work on the computer, or listen to music. If they want company, there's always someone around to play a game or work on a puzzle or talk with them.
The individuals work on goals to help them become more independent and they select what they want to work on. Some are working hard to move into their own apartment or buy their own home.
They can plan days to take off from work or day program to go somewhere special or they can just relax. Some go golfing, some go to the casino, some go to the beach, horseback riding, hiking, or out to lunch.
Group home living is not for everyone but for most of the people I know, they really enjoy it and wouldn't have it any other way. I am not saying things are perfect in group homes. What in life is perfect? I just wanted you to see inside a group home if you have never been.
Right now, in my area, new group home building has come to a halt. As the waiting list for homes grows, my state wants us to find ways to have individuals with intellectual disabilities remain with their families when they come of age. This would be fine for the individuals and their families who want this option for themselves and are well-equipped with necessary supports in place. What about the parents who are aging, though? Or what about the individuals who need more support than a family can provide? Or what about the individual who wants to move out like all her siblings did?
I hope that we are able to start building new group homes again, soon. They benefit society.
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