Effects of Acquired Brain Injury are diverse, therefore a wide range of accommodation options are required. Some people may have difficulty relearning life skills and there is frequently inadequate support.
For some people there is greater risk of homelessness due to challenging type behaviours.
Following injury for those who cannot return directly home, exploring accommodation and support options is recommended once rehabilitation begins since appropriate options are often scarce.
Key points to consider include:
- Level and type of support needed.
- Funding available.
- The person’s support network, and capacity of the family to look after the person in the home.
- Service availability.
Flexibility with regard to accommodation options may be key for the person to progress to moving on to more independent options as they relearn skills during the rehabilitation process. For example, slow stream rehabilitation units can be beneficial as they offer a measure of ongoing rehabilitation.
Families may choose to care for the person at home because they would prefer to look after their loved one personally or because they find the available alternatives inappropriate. Receiving support such as respite care services is crucial in taking on this role.
The person’s home may require adapting to make it accessible to ensure he/she can live as independently as possible. An Occupational Therapist can assess the person’s situation and recommend the most appropriate adaptation, equipment and aids.
Supported living or accommodation helps people to live more independently. Support can vary from a few visits a week to 24 hour care, and can be delivered in the person’s own home or alternative setting. A person-centred approach requires support to be individually designed to actively encourage and maintain a meaningful life, including discovery of new skills and interests.
‘Self-Directed Support in Scotland’, the Scottish Government’s website provides a one-stop-shop for information about Self-Directed Support for people who use social care services, carers and professionals.
If the decision is made that moving into a 24 hour care setting is required, a Local Authority Social Worker or Care Manager is required to carry out an assessment with the person to ensure that the right placement (residential or nursing carehome) can be found. Each resident should have their own unique support plan that details the individual’s needs and outcomes to ensure consistency and continuity of care. The needs of different ethnic minority and faith groups have to be taken into account.
Care Inspectorate, National Care Standards