Understanding Supported Living Services (SLS): What It Is and How It Works
Supported Living Services (SLS) are designed to help adults with developmental disabilities live meaningful, independent lives in their own homes and communities. While the term “SLS” is often used, it can be confusing for individuals, families, and even new professionals to fully understand what it means and how services actually work day to day.
This post breaks down SLS in a clear, simple way—explaining what it is, who it serves, and how it supports independence.
What Is Supported Living Services (SLS)?
Supported Living Services (SLS) are individualized, community-based services that support adults with developmental disabilities in living as independently as possible. Unlike group homes or residential facilities, SLS is centered around the person’s own home and personal goals.
SLS is not about doing things for someone—it’s about supporting them to do things themselves.
Services are tailored to each individual and based on their unique strengths, needs, and goals as outlined in their Individual Program Plan (IPP) or Individual Support Plan (ISP).
Who Is SLS For?
SLS is designed for adults with developmental disabilities who:
- Live in their own apartment or home independently from their family.
- Want support while maintaining independence
- Benefit from guidance, coaching, or supervision rather than 24/7 care
- Are working toward greater self-sufficiency and community involvement
Each person’s level of support is different—SLS is flexible and adapts as the individual grows and gains new skills.
How Does SLS Work?
1. Person-Centered Planning
SLS begins with a person-centered planning process. The individual, their support circle, and the regional center work together to identify:
- Personal goals
- Areas where support is needed
- Strengths and interests
- Desired level of independence
These goals guide every aspect of service delivery.
2. Individualized Support
Support is provided based on the individual’s plan and may include assistance with:
- Daily living skills (cooking, cleaning, budgeting)
- Health and safety awareness
- Community access and social skills
- Time management and organization
- Self-advocacy and decision-making
Support is flexible and can change as needs evolve.
3. Support in Real-Life Settings
One of the defining features of SLS is that support happens in real-world environments:
- The person’s home
- The community
- Work or volunteer settings
- Social and recreational activities
This helps individuals build skills that are practical, meaningful, and transferable.
4. Collaboration and Communication
SLS works best when there is strong communication between:
- The individual receiving services
- Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)
- Families or support networks
- Service coordinators and agencies
Everyone plays a role in ensuring support remains consistent, respectful, and effective.
What SLS Is Not
Understanding SLS also means knowing what it is not:
- It is not a group home or facility-based care
- It is not one-size-fits-all
- It is not about control or dependence
- It is not focused solely on supervision
Instead, SLS emphasizes choice, dignity, and growth.
The Role of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)
DSPs are trained professionals who support individuals in achieving their goals. Their role is to:
- Coach rather than take over
- Encourage independence
- Provide guidance and structure
- Maintain professional boundaries
- Support safety while honoring choice
DSPs serve as partners in growth, not caretakers.
Why SLS Matters
Supported Living Services play a vital role in empowering adults with developmental disabilities to:
- Live where they choose
- Build meaningful routines
- Participate in their communities
- Develop life skills
- Gain confidence and autonomy
SLS recognizes that independence looks different for everyone—and that each person deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling life on their own terms.
Conclusion
Supported Living Services are about more than support—they’re about possibility. By focusing on person-centered goals, real-life skill-building, and respectful partnerships, SLS creates pathways for individuals to thrive in their homes and communities.
At New Beginnings for Exceptional People, we believe understanding SLS is the first step toward stronger collaboration, better outcomes, and more empowered lives. We look forward to continuing this conversation in future posts as we explore best practices, roles, and strategies that make SLS successful.
