| Living with Family | |
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Most adults with learning disabilities live at home with their parents or other family members and relatives (38% according to a recent MENCAP report). Depending on the level of need and individual circumstances, they may also have access to a range of support services which help them, and their family, to lead decent lives. So what are the pros and cons such a life style. Here are a few things to consider. |
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| PROs | CONs |
| The love and care provided by parents family members often greatly exceeds that which is available in any other way. | It can be difficult for someone with a learning disability to fully develop as an adult when they still live in the parental home. |
| There is a high degree of stability in relationships which is not always the case in residential homes where there may be frequent changes of staff. | Staying in the family home can cause tension and stress which could potentially result in the breakdown of relationships. |
| Where speech and communication is a problem, parents and family members are usually much better placed to really understand and be empathic to the needs, wishes and emotions of the person with learning disabilities. | As parents and family members grow older, it may become more difficult for them to provide the necessary care. This raises the difficult question "What will happen to them when we die?" |
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It is important to remember that it is not a question of right or wrong whether the parents of someone with a learning disability decide to provide a home for them into adulthood. Every case is different with different needs and circumstances. it can be an extremely difficult and stressful choice and it may well be a good idea to find impartial support and advice. You can find out more about how to go about this in the section on Family Support. |
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