RESIDENTIAL SERVICES
TARC’s lights may be off and the gate may be closed, but TARC
provides 24-hour supports off campus through the RESIDENTIAL
SERVICES department. The department makes possible the dream of many individuals
that desire their own independence. It allows adults with developmental
disabilities to experience a level of autonomy through different residential
housing settings that include Community Homes, Supported Independent
Living (SIL), Center-Based Respite, and In-Home PCA/Respite based on individual
needs.
Each of the programs are designed to increase independence, foster social
interaction, as well as participate in community and recreational activities
while providing safe and healthy environments. Support staff are available
24 hours a day to provide the level of care required by each individual,
while other programs utilize the supportive services per the needs of
the person. Individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities
are increasingly learning how to live independently, manage money, stay
healthy, cook, secure a job, and build relationships.
Community Homes
TARC currently operates three Community Homes: Jane, Wellington,
and Dixie, which houses six individuals in each home at one time.
Each home provides quality care, household management, direct support,
emergency care, transportation, educational training and assistance,
and most valuable…a place to call home. The residents participate
in community outings such as fishing trips, going to the movies, football
games, Houma’s Downtown Live After 5, music at the Jolly Inn,
flea markets, and garage sales…to say the least! Community living
fosters friendships and a family atmosphere while participating in
food preparation and home maintenance. The homes also participate
in birthday and holiday parties well attended by family and friends.
This program is designed to prepare these individuals for more independent
living options if so chosen.
Supervised Independent Living (SIL)
For individuals who have obtained basic self-help skills but still
require varying degrees of assistance with living independently, there
is the Supported Independent Living (SIL) program. The SIL department
supports eight females and nine males who live alone or with a roommate,
by choice, in various integrated locations within Terrebonne Parish.
SIL is not intended to be a 24-hour support, rather the goal is to
help an individual take control of their life and be the central role
in choosing the care and supports that they desire. The Residential
Services department has three SIL Specialists that assist the individuals
with budgeting and paying bills, planning vacations, and accompanying
the individual to doctor appointments. TARC currently provides over
50 PCA’s (Personal Care Attendants) that support the individuals
in their living situation, which includes providing transportation
to stores for groceries and clothes as well as to the movies or wherever
they need to go. Personal Care Attendants also help with household
duties such as cooking and cleaning, basic hygiene, laundry, and other daily living activities.
Center Based Respite
TARC's Center-Based Respite is an in-home setting outside of one's own home.
TARC offers a temporary residential accommodation for up to ten individuals on the
first and third weekends of the month. Those that participate in this program
receive around the clock care and enjoy various activities, allowing their
families time to rest or attend to personal matters. The individuals and their
families have the option to choose to stay anywhere from daytime only to the
entire weekend.
In-Home PCA/Respite
TARC’s In-Home PCA/Respite program offers PCA support to individuals who
live in the home with family. This program allows individuals to enjoy greater
independence and more opportunities to integrate into the community while providing
the family members with needed relief.
Health Services in the Residential Program
The health needs of the individuals in the Residential programs are monitored
by TARC’s nursing staff. Medications in Community Homes and Center-Based
Respite are administered by trained, certified staff and when possible, individuals
are encouraged to self administer medications with supervision. The nurse is
available for consultation with staff regarding any medical needs of the individuals
in all of the Residential programs 24 hours a day.
Quality Program
TARC’s Residential Services program is known for its outstanding service
and personal attention to the program’s individuals. In 2008, the department
received from the Department of Health and
Hospitals its 10th year of Deficiency Free Surveys in their program.
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