Settling In
Introduction
Even though it is exciting, making the move to a new home can be a big step in a person’s life. There is likely to be new people, new routines and more responsibility. It takes time and support to adjust and establish new routines. Considering ways to help with the transition to a new home and allowing time to settle in will be important. This process is likely to look different for everyone. It's important to work out what pace will suit the person. Some people move in a couple of nights per week to get used to their new home and others may take a few months in settle in. Often, when supports are well matched and tailored to the person's needs, they thrive.
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Points of transition (like moving to a new home) can be a time where lots of learning takes place. As people move into new roles like homeowner or tenant, homemaker, housemate or neighbour, it is likely that new or different skills will be needed for them to truly succeed.
It is important to keep expectations high about the potential for people with intellectual disability and autism to learn new skills as this way, people are likely to ‘live up’ to those expectations and rise to the occasion.
Key Points
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Settling in takes time and can look different for everyone.
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Transition periods and settling in doesn’t have to happen all at once.
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Some people try a few options before making the move.
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Anticipate that some changes will be required as the person transitions and adjusts to their new home.
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People learn to living in their own home, by living in their own home!
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Moving into a new home creates an opportunity to learn new skills.
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Holding high expectations can create wonderful opportunities for growth.
Watch Video
Glenda's renovated bungalow
by Glenda (Produced by Opening Homes)
As soon as Glenda laid eyes on this charming historic bungalow she knew it was the home she'd been searching for. Although it was old and a bit run down, she saw its potential. See how Glenda has transformed this house into her own colourful accessible oasis where she feels free.
Click on the Video to watch ->
It's My Turn Now - Haylee's Home Story
by Haylee & Marilyn (Produced by Imagine More)
After Haylee watched her older siblings leave the family home many years ago, she told her parents it was her turn. Haylee wanted to move into her own place. She now lives by herself in a small townhouse and is thriving. In this video, Haylee explains how much she enjoys her home and the independence it has brought her. Her mum, Marilyn, reveals her initial fears about Haylee moving out and what eventually motivated her to support her daughter’s move. You’ll get an insight into Haylee’s paid support, the plentiful unpaid support that surrounds her in the community, and how Haylee continues to surprise her mum with how capable she is at navigating life by herself.
Click on the Video to watch ->
Read
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