Homes for Autistic Adults: What are the Options?

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Group homes for autistic adults
In group homes, two to ten autistic adults typically live together in a congregate setting and receive varying levels of support. These often include assistance with daily activities, social skills development, and 24-hour supervision.

Residents usually have their own rooms but share common spaces for meals, recreation, and programming.

Pros of group homes for autistic adults:
The structured environment promotes social integration and ensures safety
There are opportunities for social interaction and companionship

The sense of community and belonging among residents enhances well-being
Cons of group homes for autistic adults:

The cost of group homes for autistic adults can be high due to the provision of 24-hour supervision and care

There can be challenges with compatibility with housemates

It can be difficult to adapt to a shared living arrangement

Treatment centers are a specialized type of group home that provides intensive, comprehensive care and therapeutic support in a highly structured environment.

They house individuals with complex, high support needs, those with limited skills, or those who have never lived away from home and are not ready to live in a congregate setting.

Costs can be particularly high due to the level of care and therapeutic services provided, but they play a critical role in preparing individuals for eventual transfer to group homes.

Assisted living for autistic adults
Semi-independent living (SIL) offers individuals with moderate support needs the ability to live independently while still receiving staff assistance for specific tasks.

Supports may include help with personal care, medication, housekeeping, meals, and social activities. The type and frequency are tailored to each person, ranging from daily to a few hours a week.

For example, Richard lives in his own apartment and receives several hours of weekly support for household tasks, budgeting, and community services. Sarah lives in a condo with five independent units, where staff are available when needed, while John lives with a host family as an active household member.

Pros of assisted living for autistic adults:
Individuals have the freedom to make their own choices and manage their daily lives
SILs offer independence and personal privacy while still providing access to support services when needed.

Cons of assisted living for autistic adults:
Individuals must be able to manage daily living tasks like cooking, budgeting, and home maintenance, which can lead to stress if adequate support is not readily available

Loneliness and social isolation can occur without consistent social interaction or a built-in support network

One example of a co-housing model has five 4-bedroom houses for 20 participants, along with a community centre with kitchen, fitness studio, organic farm, pool, and enrichment programs.
Independent living for autistic adults

Many autistic adults are capable of residing in their own dwelling and managing daily responsibilities and personal care with minimal or no external support.

In order to live independently, individuals need to develop life skills such as cooking, budgeting, and time management. They need to build a support network of friends, family, and community resources for emotional support and assistance.

It’s important for them to be able to recognize when they need to access services to assist with daily tasks, navigating social situations, and managing health needs.

Pros of independent living for autistic adults:
Living independently maximizes personal freedom, choice, and control over their environment, fostering a sense of autonomy and self-reliance

The environment allows individuals to create a living space that suits their sensory preferences and lifestyle and reflects their unique needs and comforts

Cons of independent living for autistic adults:
Without a built-in support network, the risk of social isolation grows, particularly for those who find it challenging to initiate or maintain social connections

Challenges managing daily tasks can lead to stress, difficulty maintaining a stable living situation, or even health and safety concerns

No matter what your adult individual’s capabilities are, it’s wise to have a support system in place. Friends, family members, and other community members can provide an informal or formal circle of support.

Family living
An estimated half of all autistic individuals continue to live with their parents well into adulthood. Family members provide ongoing support and care within a familiar environment, with no need to deal with transition-related challenges.

Pros of family living for autistic adults:
The stable and familiar environment offers a sense of comfort and security and is particularly beneficial for those who thrive in predictable settings with routines

The built-in comprehensive support system is tailored to the individual’s needs

Cons of family living for autistic adults:
Living with family can limit the development of independence and self-reliance, as the individual may remain reliant on family members

Providing ongoing care can be demanding for family members, potentially causing stress, burn-out, or strained relationships within the household

The biggest barrier, in my view, is permanency. Unless alternative provisions are made, an autistic adult may suddenly be thrust into an emergency situation if their parents can no longer care for them and no other family member or friend can step up.

Tips for choosing the right living option for autistic adults
Navigating our overly complex healthcare and housing systems can seem insurmountable at times. That’s why it’s essential to be proactive and look into housing options early, years before your child needs them.

This will prepare you so that when the time comes, you will know many of your options, which will be less frightening and overwhelming.

Here are some tips for choosing the right living option for your autistic adult:
Start by assessing their needs and preferences, including the level of independence, support needed, and desired living environment

Research options thoroughly to understand the level of care and services each provides
Visit homes to evaluate their suitability, including the quality of facilities, staff, and overall environment

Consider factors like accessibility, proximity to support services, and social opportunities to align with your child’s lifestyle and needs

Financial considerations
It’s critical to develop financial planning strategies to manage the costs involved. Create a detailed budget, research insurance, and determine your long-term financial goals.

Additionally, look into potential funding sources and subsidies, such as government programs, community grants, or disability benefits, which can help offset costs.

If you need help, engage with a financial planner, social worker, or case manager who can provide personalized guidance and support in navigating these financial considerations.

As the American author Alan Lakein says, “Failing to plan is planning to fail.”

Ensuring a perfect home for autistic adults
Housing is a fundamental human right. A well-chosen living arrangement considers your child’s preferences and needs and can enhance their independence while providing support. It fosters a sense of security and belonging, benefits their well-being, and can significantly affect their overall happiness and success.

Don’t be afraid to lobby your government and shout out about those long waitlists and the scarcity of affordable, accessible, quality housing for autistic adults. We need action! The good news is that there’s growing awareness and action. It’s doable!