Creating a Safe and Empowering Living Space for Individuals with Severe Intellectual Disabilities: A Personal Journey
Living with a loved one who has severe intellectual disabilities is a unique experience, one that requires constant adaptation and rethinking of how we navigate daily life. My own journey began when my son, who has profound intellectual disabilities, reached an age where certain behaviors—like slamming doors or pulling apart objects—became more frequent and intense. These actions were driven by his sensory-seeking needs, and while they were a part of who he was, they also posed significant risks. Our home, a space meant to provide comfort and safety, needed to evolve to ensure that it met his needs while also giving him the opportunity for independence.
Understanding the Need for Modifications
When someone has severe intellectual disabilities, they may not fully understand the consequences of their actions, which can lead to unsafe situations. This became apparent in my home when my son’s love for certain sounds would lead him to bang on the walls or throw objects. It wasn’t intentional destruction, but more about the sensations he craved. This realization spurred me to rethink how we could create a space that would allow him to enjoy those sensory experiences safely, while also minimizing the risks of injury or damage.
Securing Devices to Prevent Damage
One of the first areas I focused on was the electronic devices that were so important in his life. From computers used for communication to the TV that brought him comfort, all of these devices had the potential to become hazards. I remember a particularly frustrating incident where my son had jiggled the computer until it fell from its stand, risking both the device and his safety.
In response, I came up with a few practical solutions. Bungee cords became my best friend. I used them to secure the computer and TV to their carts, preventing them from tipping over. Additionally, I used Velcro strips to anchor other devices to the tables. I also made sure to organize cords with ties and cord organizers, which not only kept things neat but eliminated tripping hazards. These simple adjustments made a huge difference, both in terms of safety and peace of mind.
Reinforcing Furniture for Safety
Furniture, something we often take for granted, became another focus. I remember how drawers would easily get pulled out completely, sometimes causing accidents, and shelves would wobble when bumped. It quickly became clear that furniture needed reinforcement to withstand heavy use.
Adding drawer stoppers to prevent them from being pulled out all the way was a simple but effective change. For larger furniture like bookcases and shelves, I installed brackets to anchor them to the walls, ensuring they wouldn’t tip over. I also padded the backs of trash cans with foam, both to prevent damage to the walls and to reduce the noise when the cans were inevitably slammed. These adjustments not only made our home safer but also gave my son more freedom to engage with his environment.
Addressing Sensory-Seeking Behaviors
I soon realized that my son’s sensory-seeking behaviors—banging on objects, slamming doors—were not acts of defiance, but rather an expression of his needs. Understanding this helped me shift my perspective and focus on providing sensory alternatives.
Instead of banning these behaviors entirely, I introduced safe, sound-producing toys. A hand drum became a favorite, offering the satisfying noise he craved without the risk of damage. I also used foam panels on the walls to absorb noise, creating a quieter environment that allowed him to engage with the world in a way that didn’t cause harm. These sensory adaptations made a huge difference, as they not only redirected his behavior but also allowed him to feel more comfortable in his own space.
Protecting Communication and Music Devices
One of the most important modifications I made was to safeguard the communication devices that enabled my son to express himself. He uses an AAC device for communication, and these devices are essential for his independence. I quickly realized that without extra security, these devices could be vulnerable to tampering or even damage.
I built custom storage boxes with drilled holes for cords and added secure latches, ensuring the devices were only accessible when supervised. I also took extra precautions with his music player, creating a durable container that could withstand his touch but was still functional. These small adjustments made a big impact on my son’s ability to use his devices without the fear of them being damaged or lost.
Promoting Independence Through Accessible Modifications
As important as safety was, I also wanted to make sure my son had the opportunity for independence. The goal was to create an environment that not only kept him safe but also empowered him to engage with his surroundings.
To foster his independence, I made sure the furniture had rounded edges and was easy to navigate. I labeled drawers and storage areas with symbols to help him locate items without assistance. Visual schedules outlining his daily routines were placed in prominent spots, allowing him to understand what to expect throughout the day. These modifications helped him feel more in control, and I could see the difference in his confidence and comfort.
Handling Problem Behaviors Constructively
There were, of course, moments when my son would attempt to bypass locks or engage with restricted areas. It was frustrating at times, but I soon learned that with patience and creativity, these behaviors could be managed effectively.
Instead of punishing or scolding, I redirected his focus to alternative activities. If he fixated on a locked area, I offered him a different toy or activity to shift his attention. I also added secondary security measures, like carabiners, when he figured out how to manipulate locks. Setting clear boundaries and consistently reinforcing them helped him understand the limits of what was safe for him to explore.
Minimizing Property Damage
Property damage was another consideration. It wasn’t uncommon for items to get damaged during sensory exploration, but I learned how to protect my home without stifling his curiosity.
Choosing durable, easy-to-clean furniture became a priority. I also added protective barriers, like foam padding behind the trash cans and around sharp corners, to reduce the risk of injury or damage. And I always kept a repair kit handy—touch-up paint and adhesive patches for those inevitable small damages. These simple steps helped me maintain a balance between safety and allowing my son to explore his environment.
Fostering a Calming Environment
Creating a calming and predictable environment was essential for reducing anxiety and minimizing challenging behaviors. I began using visual cues, like photos or icons, to communicate transitions or upcoming events, which helped alleviate the uncertainty that often led to anxiety.
Music became another powerful tool. I created playlists of his favorite calming songs, which we played during routine activities. We also set up a designated “comfort zone” in the house—a space where he could relax, complete with sensory-friendly items like weighted blankets and textured objects. These changes made his environment feel more secure and helped him manage stress.
Encouraging Feedback and Collaboration
Throughout this process, collaboration with caregivers, therapists, and family members was essential. I regularly assessed the effectiveness of the modifications and made adjustments as needed. Everyone involved in caregiving brought valuable perspectives, and their feedback helped me refine our home’s adaptations to better meet my son’s needs.
A Balanced Approach: Safety Meets Independence
In the end, the goal was simple: to create a living space that balances safety and independence. It wasn’t about eliminating my son’s need for sensory exploration or restricting his freedom—it was about creating an environment that allowed him to thrive while minimizing the risks.
Through patience, creativity, and a willingness to adapt, we transformed our home into a place that felt both secure and empowering. Every modification was made with the intention of providing my son with the independence he deserves while ensuring his safety.
Final Thoughts
In the end, the goal was simple: to create a living space that balances safety and independence. It wasn’t about eliminating my son’s need for sensory exploration or restricting his freedom—it was about creating an environment that allowed him to thrive while minimizing the risks.
Through patience, creativity, and a willingness to adapt, we transformed our home into a place that felt both secure and empowering. Every modification was made with the intention of providing my son with the independence he deserves while ensuring his safety.
Kay Carr gives insight and real life examples of the ways her and her husband, Mike, have implemented restrictions to certain items and areas in the living areas of their home to promote safety and independence for their son with severe autism.
Mike and Kay Carr are the founders of Autism Labs and parents of Michael, their thirty three year old son with low functioning autism. With the help of the University of Texas Special Ed & Speech Departments, Kay and Mike have researched and implemented effective at-home systems to promote Michael’s safety, communication, and independence.
Follow along on our “Autism at Home” series to learn simple and effective DIY home modifications that will help parents and care-takers such as yourself on this journey we share together.
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