1. Options in Community Living June, 2008
Supported Living

2. A Definition of Supported Living
Options in Community Living June, 2008
A Definition of Supported Living
a person with a disability
who requires long term, publicly funded, organized assistance
allies with an agency whose role is to arrange or provide
whatever assistance is necessary for the person to live
in a decent and secure home
of the person's own
--John O’Brien

3. Options in Community Living June, 2008
There is a Difference
Supported Living is NOT…
Supported Living IS…
An agency owned or leased home
A family home
A licensed home
Filling beds or slots
A list of tasks and transactions
Based on relationships and values about community and choice
Assistance is offered to people in their own home
Support may range from a few hours per week up to 24 hours per day
Flexibility is required to meet the needs of all individuals; those with minimal support needs, and those who need skilled support 24 hours per day

4. Options in Community Living June, 2008
Supported Living is the foundation of assistance an individual needs to live the life they choose
Nobody is excluded due to the type or significance of their disability
Supports change as a person’s needs change
The list of possible supported living assistance is long, individual and flexible

5. Words Matter…
Living in your own home does not mean living in your parent’s home.
When talking with Family Care or IRIS organizations, clarify that you want to live where you hold the lease or own.
Terms like “community supported living” and “community living” are sometimes used; make sure that there are no eligibility requirements, such as not needing assistance 24 hours a day, or not requiring assistance with personal care.

6. What Does Supported Living Include?
Options in Community Living June, 2008
What Does Supported Living Include?
Advocacy & Support
Community & Relationships
Daily Living
Health Care
Housing
Transportation
A checklist is coming soon…