Overview
Step‑Down Support offers a transitional bridge for adults moving from hospital, inpatient rehabilitation, or long‑term care facilities into the community. The programme provides a stable, structured environment that balances professional care with opportunities for independent living practice.
Target Group
- Individuals post‑hospitalization who require ongoing medical oversight but are ready to reduce supervised care.
- Residents emerging from residential treatment facilities needing a softer entry into community life.
- Adults with chronic health conditions or disabilities looking for a supportive step toward self‑sufficient living.
Support Structure
- Short‑term placement (typically 4–12 weeks) designed to match the resident’s needs and progress rate.
- Multidisciplinary team: Nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and support workers collaborate to deliver holistic care.
- Clinical oversight: Regular appointments with the resident’s GP and specialists, with a clear protocol for medication adjustments, emergency response, and hospital readmission if needed.
Clinical Care
- Medical monitoring: Daily vitals, wound assessments, and medication reconciliation.
- Therapeutic interventions: Physical therapy sessions to restore mobility, speech therapy to improve communication, and occupational therapy for daily‑living tasks.
- Health education: Information on disease management, lifestyle modifications, and self‑monitoring techniques.
Skills Building
- Daily living autonomy: Residents practise cooking, cleaning, laundry, and financial tasks in a supervised setting.
- Goal‑setting workshops: Together with the care team, residents outline short‑term and long‑term objectives, such as securing permanent housing or re‑entering the workforce.
- Peer support: Structured group meetings where residents share experiences, challenges, and strategies, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual encouragement.
Planning for Independence
- Personalised transition plans: Each resident receives a written roadmap outlining the steps required to move into Supported Living Homes, independent housing, or community programmes.
- Resource mapping: Identification of local agencies, housing providers, and employment services that align with the resident’s aspirations.
- Family & caregiver engagement: Families are involved in planning discussions, ensuring they feel informed and empowered to support their loved one’s continued progress.
