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Program Type:

Intermediate Care Facility (Sensory Adaptation, Orientation & Life Skills Development)

Program Goals:

The primary goal of Program 1 is to increase the satisfaction and independence of the people living here. Individuals whose behavior interferes with their satisfaction and independence are assisted in finding replacement behaviors; blind and deaf/blind individuals learn to navigate their environments independently; and deaf and deaf/blind individuals learn to communicate in American Sign Language and/or using alternative communication systems.

Services:

All service planning and individual program development is an interdisciplinary effort. Services are based on comprehensive assessments, including evaluation of individual skills and interests. The resulting active treatment includes training, assistance, opportunities, and choices in the areas of communication, socialization, activities of daily living, vocational activities, leisure time utilization, and attention to and treatment of any underlying medical issues.

Training in Orientation and Mobility is provided to people with low or no vision and to the staff who work with them. The Program also emphasizes communication skills for deaf and deaf/blind individuals. When individuals exhibit behaviors which cause injury, damage, or interfere with social relationships, staff determine the function of these behaviors and then help individuals learn a replacement behavior that would serve the same function, but without the element of injury, damage, or social interference. Prompt medical attention is always provided, and licensed nursing staff are available at all times.

Description of Individuals Served:

These men and women are adults, currently with an average age of 45. Most individuals have a diagnosis of profound or severe mental retardation, along with a variety of sensorimotor, behavioral, social, and medical challenges. Residences have special environmental adaptations for people who are blind or visually impaired, deaf, or both blind and deaf.