Innovative methods and tools for professionals working in supported living services for intellectually disabled...

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Disability Studies
• Education

Background:

• Modern social care and human rights legislation advocate for increased autonomy in intellectually disabled individuals.
• Traditional support models often lack integrated, practical tools for fostering independence.
• The concept of autonomy is central to improving quality of life for persons with intellectual disabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a developmental model for maximizing autonomy in individuals with moderate to profound intellectual disabilities.
• To introduce an innovative tool-battery designed to assist support staff in educational tasks within social services.
• To illustrate the practical application of this model and tools in supported living environments.

Main Methods:

• A developmental spiral model illustrating the process towards autonomy.
• Integration of personal educational projects into daily activities.
• Development and application of a specialized tool-battery for support staff.

Main Results:

• The model emphasizes an empowering, adult-to-adult relationship between professionals and supported individuals.
• The tool-battery facilitates the pedagogical tasks embedded in everyday social services.
• Successful initial application demonstrated in the Hungarian Down Foundation's supported living services.

Conclusions:

• The developed model and tool-battery offer a structured yet flexible approach to fostering autonomy.
• Professional training focusing on empowering attitudes and versatile skills is crucial for successful implementation.
• This approach promotes a partnership model where professionals and individuals with intellectual disabilities co-create developmental pathways.