When your child or loved one reaches adulthood, the questions about their future don’t stop—they just change. If you’ve been exploring residential care for individuals with developmental disabilities, you’ve likely been about traditional group homes. But there is another warm, family-centered path: adult developmental home services in Arizona.
The Transition into Adulthood: An Emotional Crossroad
For years, your life has revolved around providing support, advocating at IEP meetings, establishing routines, and ensuring your loved one feels safe, understood, and cherished. As they transition into adulthood, the question on every caregiver’s heart is the same: “Who will care for them with the same love, respect, and patience that I do?”
When families look at residential options through the Arizona DDD (Division of Developmental Disabilities), the default response is often a standard group home. While group homes serve an important role in our community, they aren’t the only option—and for many individuals, they aren’t the right fit.
“Family Partners is the perfect name. They are like having an extended family.”—Xenia, Adult Developmental Home Provider
What is an Adult Developmental Home (ADH)?
An Adult Developmental Home (ADH) is a licensed family home where a trained, compassionate provider opens their doors to offer 24/7 care, and companionship to an adult with developmental disabilities. Think of it as a form of specialized special needs foster care for adults, where stability and personal connection come first.
Instead of rotating shift workers or larger staff turn-overs typical of traditional facility settings, an ADH offers consistency. The individual lives as an active, included member of a local family—sharing meals, celebrating holidays, building life skills, and participating in community activities side-by-side.
How Does an ADH Differ from a Group Home?
Understanding your options helps you make the best decision for your family’s unique situation:
| Feature | Adult Developmental Home (ADH) | Traditional Group Home |
|---|---|---|
| Living Environment | Private family residence (1 to 3 individuals maximum). | Community facility setting (typically 4 to 6 individuals). |
| Caregiver Structure | Consistent, dedicated family provider offering long-term stability. | Rotating shifts of direct care staff members. |
| Daily Experience | Family-style meals, personalized daily routines, and organic community connection. | Structured group schedule and shared household activities. |
| Best Fit For | Individuals who thrive with 1-on-1 attention, stability, and family inclusion. | Individuals who prefer larger peer groups and shift-based supervision. |
Are You Looking for a Home for Your Loved One?
If your adult child or family member is eligible for services through the Arizona Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), you have choices. Adult Developmental Homes are designed to empower individuals with diagnoses such as Autism spectrum disorder, Intellectual disabilities, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, or Epilepsy to live meaningful, self-directed lives.
At Family Partners, we know that placing a family member in someone else’s care takes immense trust. That’s why we take intentional care in matching individuals with licensed home providers. We look closely at personalities, lifestyles, shared interests, and care needs to foster long-term compatibility, trust, and genuine friendship.
Becoming a Provider of Special Needs Foster Care for Adults
Perhaps you are on the other side of this journey. You have extra room in your home, a heart for service, and a passion for special needs foster care for adults. Becoming a licensed Adult Developmental Home provider is one of the most rewarding journeys a family can take.
As a provider, you don’t just offer care—you open your heart and home to help an adult gain independence, learn daily life skills, experience community outings, and feel supported every day.
What Support Does Family Partners Provide to Caregivers?
You are never on this journey alone. Family Partners walks alongside our licensed providers every step of the way:
- Comprehensive Training: We prepare you with specialized skills, CPR/First Aid certification, and continuous professional growth opportunities.
- Tax-Exempt Compensation: Providers receive monthly compensation for Room & Board along with habilitation reimbursements for the care and skill-building provided.
- Respite Support: We understand caregiving requires balance. Providers receive daily respite stipends so you can take time to recharge when needed.
- Dedicated Family Support Coordinators: You are paired with a dedicated coordinator who conducts monthly check-ins, assists with licensing, and advocates for both you and the adult in your care.
Take the Next Step with Family Partners
Whether you are looking for a warm, family-style developmental home for your loved one or feel called to open your home as a licensed provider in Arizona, we are here to guide you.
Call us today: 602-997-8300 (Peoria Office) or 928-783-3858 (Yuma Office)| Visit us online: familypartners.net
