New "tech home" helps people with disabilities to live independently
Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS) has launched a new model of service in Red Wing that provides in-home technology to help people with disabilities live more independently.
Called Eagle’s Nest, the new “tech home” provides in-person staff when needed while supporting residents remotely as they build confidence to manage daily living.
“Technology is opening new doors for people with disabilities,” said Jennifer Vogel, Eagle’s Home director for Lutheran Social Service. “This new service model is working very well for the individual who lives there now, and we know more people in our community could benefit from this living option.”
Eagle’s Nest can accommodate up to four individuals. New technology features include 24/7 video call support, remote monitoring of kitchen appliances and medication distribution. LSS direct support professionals also visit the home on a regular schedule to provide additional support.
Vogel says that while technology provides a great way to help individuals build on their independence, staff are always available to support them in the home, provide transportation, and anything else they need to succeed.
“LSS strives to meet the changing needs of the people we support,” explained Mark Dubbels, associate vice president of LSS Community Residential Services. “At LSS, our homes and supportive services are tailored to individuals and their specific needs.”
Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota has a 70-year history of serving people with disabilities, dating back to 1954 when Vasa Children’s Home began serving children with disabilities.
Today, the statewide organization provides a wide range of supportive services for more than 2,700 people with disabilities to help them live full and abundant lives in the community.
In addition to the new tech home, housing and support options include traditional supported living homes, family Host Homes, shared living opportunities and specialized housing for individuals with significant behavioral or medical challenges.
For more information, please contact Jennifer Vogel at 651.301.1190 or jennifer.vogel@lssmn.org.
Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota began in 1865 when a Lutheran pastor and his congregation opened an orphanage for children in Vasa, Minn. Today, with 2,500 employees and 10,000 volunteers, Lutheran Social Service supports one in 65 Minnesotans through services that inspire hope, change lives and build community. Statewide, the organization seeks to foster safe and supportive homes for children, restore health and wellness in families, empower people with disabilities to live the lives they imagine, and promote health, independence and quality of life for older adults. For comprehensive information about the work of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota, visit lssmn.org.