Success Stories
Regardless of the complexity of the challenge, ICF/DDs, DD-Hs and DD-Ns always pursue aggressive "Active Treatment" approaches. The following profiles, taken randomly from throughout the industry, illustrate some of the tangible gains these approaches frequently achieve.
SHARON, 28
Diagnosis: Severe tongue and chewing disorder, emaciation.
Facility: ICF/DD-N
Interdisciplinary Team Approach/Activities:
- Develop specific feeding techniques.
- Personalize meal plans and eating schedules.
- Address food allergies.
RESULT: Dramatic improvement in intake of healthy foods. Weight increase from 67 to 84 pounds. Food allergies neutralized.
DAVID, mid-30's
Diagnosis: Severe head injury, motorcycle accident. Uses wheelchair.
Facility: ICF/DD-H
Interdisciplinary Team Approach/Activities:
- Regular consultations with registered nurses.
- Personal physician in community.
- All services coordinated by qualified mental retardation professional.
- Music, movies, daily interaction with other residents.
RESULT: Guided and supported by staff, client is enjoying the fullest life possible.
Most Memorable Moment
Sean McAlister
Residential Technician
ICF/DD-H |
"I remember this one gentleman. He was about 45 years old. He was severely retarded and autistic. He had a lock on his locker, and he really wanted to learn to open and close it. So I designed a program to help him. I worked with him every day. I broke the process down into steps. I began by teaching him simply to touch the key to the lock. Then later to put the key in. Then to turn the handle. If he needed help, I would hold his hand while he turned the key. Later, gradually, we moved on to pulling the latch and relocking the lock. When he finally did it on his own, he was ecstatic. Now he does it unassisted every day. It's one of those small things that makes you realize you really can make a difference in someone's life."
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RICK, 34
Diagnosis: Seizure disorder requiring continuous medical supervision. Severe visual impairment.
Facility: ICF/DD-H
Interdisciplinary Team Approach/Activities:
- Training in mobility skills.
- Training in employment skills.
- Application of special techniques to compensate for impaired vision.
- Supervision, support, and guidance by house manager, direct care professionals, registered nurses, and qualified mental retardation professionals.
RESULT: Part-time employment in landscaping and house maintenance.
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