Supported Living Services

Personalized in-home support that empowers autistic adults to live independently in their own homes.

Independence Starts at Home

Personalized, in-home support that helps autistic adults build confidence, develop routines, and live life on their own terms — with exactly the right level of care.

Our Supported Living Services are designed to help autistic adults thrive in the comfort of their own homes. We provide individualized, person-centered support that respects each individual's autonomy while offering the guidance needed to manage daily life with confidence. Whether someone needs a few hours of assistance a week or around-the-clock care, our trained staff adapts to their unique needs.

Our Supported Living Services go beyond basic care — we help individuals build the routines, skills, and confidence needed to manage their own households. Staff provide hands-on assistance with cooking, cleaning, budgeting, medication management, and personal care while always encouraging greater independence.

We understand that every person's path to independence looks different. Some individuals may need 24/7 support initially, gradually reducing hours as skills develop. Others may only need a few hours per week for specific tasks. Our flexible model adapts to wherever you are on your journey.

All support staff receive specialized training in autism, person-centered practices, and positive behavior support. We maintain consistent staffing to build trust and rapport, because we know that meaningful relationships are the foundation of effective support.

What We Provide

Individualized support plans tailored to personal goals and preferences
Assistance with household management, meal preparation, and personal care
24/7 on-call support available for emergencies and peace of mind
Regular progress reviews with individuals, families, and SDRC service coordinators
Focus on building skills that promote long-term independence

Who This Service Is For

This service is ideal for:

Autistic adults transitioning from family homes to independent living
Individuals who need daily living assistance but want to remain in their own home
Adults stepping down from more restrictive residential settings
Families seeking reliable, consistent in-home support for a loved one

What to Expect

Here's how we get started:

Initial Assessment

We meet with you, your family, and your SDRC service coordinator to understand goals, preferences, and support needs.

Personalized Plan

Together we create an Individual Program Plan (IPP) that outlines specific support areas, staffing schedules, and measurable goals.

Staff Matching

We carefully match you with trained support staff based on personality, interests, and communication style.

Ongoing Support

Regular check-ins, progress reviews, and plan adjustments ensure services evolve as your goals and needs change.

Why Choose Helping Hands Supported Living

SDRC Vendored Provider

As an approved San Diego Regional Center vendor, our services are funded through the regional center system at no cost to eligible individuals.

Consistent Staff

We prioritize staff continuity so individuals build real relationships with the people who support them, not a revolving door of unfamiliar faces.

Flexible Hours

From a few hours per week to 24/7 live-in support, we scale services to match each person's current needs and adjust as they grow.

Person-Centered Approach

Your goals drive everything. We don't fit people into programs — we build programs around people.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Supported Living?

Supported Living Services (SLS) provide individualized assistance to adults with developmental disabilities living in their own homes or apartments. Unlike group homes, the individual chooses where they live, and support is tailored to their specific needs.

How is Supported Living funded?

SLS is funded through the San Diego Regional Center (SDRC) as part of each individual's Individual Program Plan (IPP). As a vendored provider, we work directly with SDRC — there is no out-of-pocket cost to eligible individuals or their families.

What is the difference between Supported Living and a group home?

In Supported Living, the individual lives in their own home or apartment and receives personalized support based on their unique needs. In a group home, multiple individuals live together in a facility-owned residence with set schedules and routines. SLS offers far greater autonomy and self-direction.

Can someone receive 24/7 support through SLS?

Yes. Support levels range from a few hours per week to around-the-clock care, depending on the individual's needs as determined in their IPP. We also provide on-call support for emergencies outside of scheduled hours.

How do I get started with Supported Living Services?

Contact us or have your SDRC service coordinator reach out. We'll schedule an initial meeting to discuss the individual's goals and needs, and work with your SDRC coordinator to get services authorized.