Housing for Persons with Intellectual Disability
Persons with special needs
Most of the housing programs and services listed below are designed to meet the needs of individuals and families who already, or are eligible to, receive services through DHS.
Persons of all ages who are registered with the DHS Office of Intellectual Disability (OID) will, as part of their Individual Support Plan, already be in discussion with their Supports Coordinator concerning their housing preferences. Persons with intellectual disabilities who want to register with OID should contact OID Intake and Registration at 412-253-1250. For more information on the MR/ID Service System please go here.
Some housing options may include:
- Community Homes
Persons with mental retardation are offered a full range of living arrangements in the community. Residences vary in the number of housemates, the intensity of care/services and whether they are un/licensed. In each case, Community Homes provide the appropriate level of professional interaction with the individuals receiving services.
- Lifesharing through Family Living
Persons with intellectual disabilities, whose care needs may fall anywhere along the continuum of intensities, are welcomed by an unrelated individual or family to share their home and life. These individuals/families undergo training to prepare them to offer appropriate supports.
- Domiciliary Care (Dom Care/Adult Foster Care)
Adults who are independently mobile or semi-mobile but cannot live independently may be matched with families who are willing to open their homes and provide a caring, residential environment. Though interested persons may call the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) (412-350-5105), persons should include their Supports Coordinator in the process.
- Nursing Home Transition: Long-term Care Options
Older persons and persons of all ages with disabilities can discuss the expanded range of long-term care opportunities beyond traditional nursing home care with Area Agency on Aging counselors at the AAA SeniorLine 412-350-5460.
Persons with intellectual disabilities may also explore options without the involvement of OID
Personal Care Homes in Allegheny County (sort-able Excel file)
Licensed Nursing Homes in Allegheny County (sort-able Excel file)