Independence for adults with IDD can start from the moment they're born.
Surveys show that 3 in 4 parents encourage their kids aged 5-8 to try independent tasks. According to a 2016 study, parents focus most on independence through teaching social skills if their children have intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD).
Gabriel Homes unlocks the door to independence for adults with IDD in Reston and Herndon.
In January, one resident, Gabe, celebrated 30 years of living at Gabriel Homes. His mom, Joan, reflected on how she prepared her son for independence.
Early Years
Joan (second from right) and Bob (right), Gabe’s dad, taught Gabe how to care for himself physically. His morning routine was getting up, showering, picking clothes, and dressing himself. As he got older, Gabe added making lunch to the routine.
“We reinforced the same routine with Gabe, and he became comfortable doing it day after day. When Gabe moved to Gabriel Homes, staff understood his routine and let him stick to it.”
Moving to Gabriel Homes
Gabe started preparing for independence as his parents raised his younger sisters. When home alone, Gabe developed habits like locking the doors or contacting his neighbor for emergencies. Once Gabe became a resident at Gabriel Homes, Joan and Bob understood they wouldn’t be around as much.
Gabe tried other habits little by little while keeping his daily routine intact. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches were Gabe’s meal of choice, but he added other ingredients to the mix. Since Gabe was active all day, he started snacking during his downtime to reenergize himself.
Victories Today
Gabe’s favorite time of year is visiting Camp Jaycee, his summer getaway. He goes swimming, rows paddleboats, and plays sports for two weeks of nonstop activity. Gabe says he likes going to Camp Jaycee because he enjoys making new friends outside of Gabriel Homes.
Gabe may live away from his parents, but he enjoys quality time with his mom. The two specifically spend time outside or at the movies together. When he sees the whole family, Gabe watches his sisters’ kids, who like running around and playing video games with him.
“Gabe is a grown man,” said Joan. “He has come so far and been able to handle more responsibility. Large crowds can be overwhelming, but he’s much more outgoing with his friends, family, sisters, nephews, and niece than ever.”