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This section is intended to make suggestions about how to choose appropriate housing and to provide information about different housing options about independent living skills programs. The housing options are organized from most to least independent living situations.
The listing of housing in this section includes housing providers that serve persons with brain injury. While efforts have been made to provide as many options as possible, this is not a complete list. You are encouraged to choose a housing option that allows both the person with brain injury and the family to live as independently as possible.
Independent Living Skills Programs
Many organizations have programs that teach independent living skills to persons with disabilities. Some programs are geared towards persons with brain injury. Independent living skills programs support a person's ability to live independently in his or her community.
Some independent living skill providers can visit the current residence of a person with brain injury to assist them with maximizing and/or maintaining independence and self-direction. Staff may provide assistance with budgeting, meal planning, and leisure activities. Other providers operate programs out of an office or social service agency.
Issues to Consider
When deciding on the best housing option for a person with a brain injury, there are many issues for families to consider. Persons with brain injury and their loved ones should ask:
What kind of living situation is desired by and acceptable to the person with brain injury? What kind of living situation is needed to meet the physical and safety needs of the person with brain injury? What kind of living situation is needed to meet the intellectual, cognitive,and social needs of the person with brain injury? How will family members be involved in the care and rehabilitation process? What demands on time and energy are realistic and feasible? What potential does the person with brain injury have for improvement and rehabilitation? What kind of living situation will best foster improvement and rehabilitation? How can we create a system where the person with brain injury is able to live as independently as possible while family members and friends maintain productive lives? Will the housing facility create an environment that is responsive to cultural needs and values? Housing for Seniors
The Senior Help Line can help seniors in all areas of Illinois find housing, long-term care facilities, adult day care services, assisted living, and hospice care. Call (800) 252-8966. The Senior Help Line can also refer you to transportation resources for seniors.
Housing Options
Living with Family: If the person with brain injury is returning home, you may need to make some alterations. For example, you may need to build a ramp, rearrange furniture, or widen doorways. The bathroom may need renovation to meet the needs of the person with the brain injury. There many contractors with specialized knowledge and skills in the area. There are also several home renovations funding sources, including low or no interest loans, for which you may be eligible.
After a brain injury, many individuals have trouble with judgement, memory, attention span, and confusion that can led to dangerous situations. You may need to create an environment that encourages safe practices regarding cooking, the use of electrical equipment, answering the doorbell and telephone, and any other activity that could pose a safety risk. You may also need to limit access to car keys, alcohol, or weapons.
Home Health Care Options: If care for the person with a brain injury within the home proves to be too difficult for family member, a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) may be hired. Some PCAs work just a few hours a day, while others are live-in attendants for the individual. Medicare, HMOs, Medicaid, Office of Rehab Services (ORS) or insurance may help pay for PCAs.
Renting: Renting is an option for a person with brain injury who can live independently but is not able to perform home maintenance. Living expenses can be minimized if the person with a brain injury is willing and able to share housing with one or more individuals. Rent subsidies or assistance may available through the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Long-term Care Facilities: Long Term care facilities are licensed by the State of Illinois to provide nursing and medical services 24 hours a day to persons who do not require hospitalization yet have ongoing medical needs. Many long-term care facilities provide rehabilitation and recreation. A long-term care facility can also be used as a transitional home as persons with brain injury prepare to return from the hospital to the home.
Questions to Ask Housing Providers
It is important to consider a number of factors when you evaluate established housing options. Questions to ask will vary depending on the individual housing needs of the person with brain injury. Potential questions include:
What are the fees and what will they cover? Will there be additional expense? What kind of reimbursement (insurance, governmental assistance, etc.) is accepted? Are the bedrooms and bathrooms private or shared? How are physical, cognitive, behavioral, and medical challenges handled? What is a typical daily schedule for residents? What meals are provided? Do residents help with meal preparation? How are family members and friends included in a resident's activities? Is independence encouraged and supported? Can the services you provide be adapted when clients show an increased level of functioning? What are the professional qualifications and experience of the staff? What are the ongoing staff training requirements? What is the staff to resident ratio? What is the turnover rate of the staff? How does this facility encourage optimum community integration? What is your crisis plan for situations that have the potential to become unmanageable? Try to find three housing providers to interview before you make a decision. Be sure to tour housing options that you consider. Pay attention to cleanliness, safety and security, and overall atmosphere. Observe the way that staff members interact with residents.