When families begin exploring residential care options for a loved one with an intellectual or developmental disability, one question often comes up: What will life be like there?

At Open Arms Care, quality care extends beyond meeting daily needs. It involves creating an environment where individuals feel supported, respected, and at home. From the admission process through long-term placement, the focus is on providing individualized care while helping each person build a sense of belonging.

Starting With the Individual

Every admission begins with getting to know the individual.

Open Arms Care takes time to learn about each person’s preferences, medical needs, daily routines, and interests. This information helps staff develop a plan that reflects the individual’s needs and goals.

As part of the process, staff members visit individuals in their current living environment and invite families to tour an Open Arms Care home. These visits help ensure everyone has an opportunity to ask questions, become familiar with the setting, and determine whether the home is a good fit.

Families play an important role throughout the process. Their input helps create continuity and comfort during the transition.

The Importance of Consistency

Consistency is an important part of quality care.

Individuals often thrive when routines are maintained, and relationships are built over time. Open Arms Care works to provide a stable environment where individuals know what to expect and feel comfortable in their surroundings.

Direct Support Professionals, or DSPs, play a key role in this effort. In addition to assisting with daily living activities, they provide encouragement, support, and companionship. These relationships help build trust and promote overall well-being.

Individualized Care and Support

Each individual supported by Open Arms Care has a personalized plan designed to address physical, emotional, and social needs. Plans are reviewed regularly and updated as needs, preferences and goals change.

Open Arms Care also utilizes a Circle of Support, which brings together family members, individuals receiving services, DSPs and other members of the care team. Through ongoing communication and collaboration, the group works together to make informed decisions and provide appropriate support.

Creating a Sense of Home

Quality care involves more than providing a place to live.

Individuals are encouraged to participate in activities they enjoy, make choices about their daily routines, and build relationships with those around them. Staff members work to create an environment where individuals feel welcomed, valued and included.

For many individuals and families, finding the right placement is about more than services. It is about finding a place where the individual feels comfortable, supported and connected.

Working Alongside Families

Families remain important partners throughout an individual’s journey at Open Arms Care.

Open communication helps ensure families stay informed and involved. Whether discussing goals, addressing concerns or celebrating achievements, staff members work closely with families to support each individual.

A Commitment to Quality Care

Quality care is reflected in the daily interactions, relationships and support provided to each individual.

From admission through everyday life, Open Arms Care remains committed to creating opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live with dignity, independence and a sense of belonging.

By Nikki Vinsant Byrd
Executive Director