Choosing the right support for an adult with an intellectual or developmental disability (I/DD) is one of the most important decisions a family can make. In Oregon, services such as Foster Care, Supported Living, and 24-hour residential care are designed to help individuals live safely, independently, and with dignity in their communities.
This guide explains how these services work, who qualifies, and what families should look for when selecting a provider.
What Are Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD)?
Intellectual and developmental disabilities are lifelong conditions that typically appear before age 18 and can affect learning, communication, behavior, and daily living skills. Common examples include:
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Intellectual disability
- Down syndrome
- Cerebral palsy
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, developmental disabilities can impact major life activities such as independent living, social interaction, and employment, which is why ongoing support services are often needed.
What Is Supported Living?
Supported Living is designed for adults with I/DD who want to live as independently as possible but still need regular assistance. They often live alone in an apartment, with roommates, or with family.
Supported living services focus on:
- Maintaining independence
- Building life skills such as meal preparation, household cleaning, medication management, budgeting, and personal organization.
- Staying connected to the community
- Supporting personal goals outlined in the Individual Support Plan (ISP)
Supported living provides flexible, individualized support in a person’s own home setting. Services can be short-term, such as respite care, or long-term on a daily or weekly basis, depending on the hours and supports authorized in the individual’s ISP.
What Is 24-Hour Residential Care?
For individuals who require continuous supervision or a higher level of daily support, 24-hour residential care provides a safe, stable home environment with trained staff available at all times.
Services typically include:
- Round-the-clock trained staff providing supervision, assistance, and support day and night
- A safe, structured home environment with a small number of residents (no more than three adults) to promote comfort, stability, and individualized attention.
- Support with personal care and daily living, including hygiene, dressing, meal preparation, mobility assistance, and household routines
- Medication administration and health monitoring, coordinated with healthcare providers and nursing supports when needed
- Behavioral and communication supports based on each individual’s ISP and any approved behavior support plans
- Community participation and social engagement, including outings, recreational activities, appointments, and opportunities to build relationships
- Skill development and independence building, helping individuals maintain or improve daily living and decision-making skills
- Coordination with families and support teams, including Services Coordinators, Personal Agents, and medical providers
Who Is Eligible for I/DD Services in Oregon?
These homes are licensed and regulated to ensure health, safety, and quality of care.
Eligibility for services is determined through Oregon’s developmental disabilities system, overseen by the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS).
Eligibility is generally based on:
- A qualifying I/DD diagnosis
- Functional support needs
- Medicaid (OHP) eligibility
- Assessment through a local CDDP or brokerage
Once eligible, individuals work with a Services Coordinator or Personal Agent to develop an ISP and explore service options.
How to Choose the Right Home Care or Supported Living Provider
When evaluating providers, families should look for the following:
Person-Centered Care
Support plans should reflect the individual’s goals, preferences, culture, and strengths.
Trained and Consistent Staff
Staff should be trained on:
- The individual’s ISP
- Medication and health needs
- Behavior support strategies
- Trauma-informed and dignity-based care
Community Inclusion
Quality providers actively support individuals to participate in their community, build relationships, and engage in meaningful activities.
Clear Communication
Families and support teams should receive regular updates and feel comfortable asking questions.
Why Person-Centered Care Improves Quality of Life
The Administration for Community Living emphasizes that person-centered, community-based services lead to:
- Greater independence
- Improved emotional well-being
- Stronger social connections
- Higher overall quality of life
This approach ensures individuals with I/DD are supported as whole people—not just service recipients.
How Sunrise Home Care Supports Adults with I/DD
Sunrise Home Care provides home care, supported living, and residential services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Oregon.
Our approach is rooted in:
- Person-centered planning
- Compassionate, well-trained caregivers
- Collaboration with families and service coordinators
- A commitment to dignity, safety, and inclusion
📍 Serving the Portland metro area and surrounding counties
- Learn more about Our Supported Living Services
- Learn more about Our 24-hour care services
- Check Eligibility for I/DD Services
Need Help Understanding Your Options?
If you’re unsure which type of support is right for you or your loved one:
- Speak with your Services Coordinator or Personal Agent
- Review eligibility guidelines
- Ask providers detailed questions about their services
Sunrise Home Care is always available as a resource—even if we’re not the right fit.
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Developmental Disabilities Overview. https://www.cdc.gov
- Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS). Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Services. https://www.oregon.gov/odhs
- Administration for Community Living (ACL). Person-Centered Practices. https://acl.gov
Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice, medical advice, or an official interpretation of Oregon law or ODHS policy. Please review official Oregon sources for the most current information.