Finding the right housing can be one of the biggest challenges for adults with autism or I/DD who want more independence, and for their friends and families who want to make sure the right support is in place. For decades, traditional group homes were the main option. But today, alternatives like Smart Living combine safety, support, and autonomy in a different way.
Here’s how the two options compare: how they work, the support they offer, and who each model tends to work best for.
Traditional group homes
Group homes typically house three to eight people in one residence, with staff present around the clock to help with meals, medication, hygiene, and daily routines. Some staff live on site; others work in shifts. Either way, someone is always available.
Most residential facilities follow a set schedule. Meals happen at regular times, community outings are planned for the group, and most residents follow the same general routine. There may be some room for personal preferences, but staff make most decisions and keep things running smoothly for everyone.
Smart Living: A different approach
Smart Living homes are regular apartments equipped with innovative technology and remote supports, plus drop-in support available as needed. Instead of sharing a residence with multiple people and 24/7 on-site staff, participants live independently with access to help when they need it.
Each apartment includes a standard set of smart devices like two-way communication tablets, smart sensors, and panic buttons. Additional technology is added based on the participant’s needs — from medication dispensers and health monitors to kitchen safety tools and daily routine reminders.
Remote support is available through the built-in tablets, and staff can check in at set times (for example, to help with daily tasks) or if sensors detect unusual activity.
Unlike traditional residential models, Smart Living puts the person at the center of their own living arrangements. They decide how to spend their day, what to eat, when to go out, and how their home is set up. The tech helps them stay safe and on track without compromising privacy.
Key differences between group homes and Smart Living
Autonomy and independence
How much control someone has over their daily life can vary a lot depending on the housing model.
In group homes, staff make most daily decisions for residents — when to eat, where to go, what activities to do. There may be some flexibility, but the house schedule usually comes first.
In Smart Living, people make their own choices. Remote support professionals are there when needed, but they don’t run the day. The setup is designed to support independence, not to control.
While group homes are built around structure and shared routines, Smart Living focuses on personal freedom. That makes it a good fit for someone looking for more autonomy and self-direction.
Differences in support structure
Support is a core part of any housing setup for adults with autism, but how it’s delivered makes a big difference.
Group homes have staff on-site 24/7. That means help is always nearby, but it also means residents follow the staff’s schedule. Support is consistent, but often not very personalized. The focus is more on safety and routine than on individual goals.
Smart Living doesn’t automatically include in-person support. Staff can check in at set times or respond to alerts, and the program provides coaching, reminders, or in-person assistance without someone hovering all the time. It’s a model that encourages growth — many start with more support and need less over time as their confidence grows.
This approach allows for more privacy and independence, but requires a basic level of self-management.
Learn more about how remote support works in practice.
Being part of the local community
Where you live and who you live with shape your housing experience.
Group homes are usually disability-specific. Everyone living there has similar needs, and the home is staffed and adapted accordingly. Residents might share bedrooms or bathrooms, and the environment is structured to meet licensing standards.
In Smart Living, people with autism live in regular apartment buildings in inclusive neighborhoods, alongside neurotypical neighbors.
Choose between a Smart Living home in an intentional community, or participate from an existing private home – we’ll install the tech you need. The program is available in several counties in Central Maryland. Find out more about the locations here.
In Smart Living apartments within selected neighborhoods, each participant has their own bedroom and bathroom, and may share a living space with a roommate. The tech is built in, but not intrusive, so the apartment looks and feels like home. Participants often live in the same building or within walking distance of each other. This means it’s easy to meet and spend time with friends, plan activities, or simply see familiar faces. The setup combines independence with built-in opportunities for social connection.
Use of new technology
Technology plays a growing role in supported living, and how it’s used (or not used) can affect everything from safety to independence to cost.
Group homes may have basic safety features like emergency buttons or fire alarms, but most support comes from staff. Reminders are usually given in person, and any tech in place is managed by staff.
Smart Living is built around assistive and enabling tech that supports independence. Participants might use communication tablets, smart watches, fall sensors, automated medication dispensers, or other connected devices. Each setup is personalized; some people need just a few tools, while others benefit from a full suite of smart tech. The goal is to offer the right amount of support without giving up privacy or autonomy.
The strength of Smart Living is that it combines tech with human backup instead of relying mostly on direct support. That often makes it more cost-effective and efficient than traditional alternatives, but it can’t replace in-person help for more complex or hands-on support needs.
Costs and funding
Both housing and supports cost money, and funding often comes from public programs, benefits, or vouchers.
Group homes charge a per-day rate that covers housing, meals, staffing, and services. This is typically paid for through Medicaid waivers. Because it’s a bundled model, residents don’t have much control over how the money is spent. Group homes also aren’t compatible with self-directed funding models. In most states, it’s not possible to use self-directed services while living in a group home.
Smart Living separates housing from support services. Rent is capped based on income for those with limited means, and the Elevate Foundation can help cover housing costs for those with very low income. Support services are funded separately, which means participants can scale support up or down as needed and have more control over their budget. This makes Smart Living a strong fit for those using self-directed funding, since it allows for greater choice and flexibility in how support dollars are spent.
For more on how rent subsidies, benefits, and move-in support fit into Smart Living, check out our detailed guide to housing costs and funding.
Transition and flexibility
Needs can change, and being able to adjust the types and amount of support without having to move can be a big advantage.
Group homes are usually designed for a specific support level. If someone becomes more independent or needs a different type of support, they might have to move to a setting that better matches their needs.
Smart Living is designed to be flexible. Participants can start with a short-term trial, complete a thorough assessment, and then get the exact level and type of support they need. This can be adjusted over time, so they don’t have to move when needs change.
Read more about what to expect when applying for a Smart Living apartment.
Some individuals start in group homes and later transition to more independent settings. For many, Smart Living becomes a long-term or permanent home. It allows people to build a stable life while tailoring supports to match their goals and abilities.
Who each model works best for
Smart Living
Smart Living works well for people who want more independence but still need reliable support in the background. It’s a good fit for those who:
- Can manage daily routines with some help or reminders
- Want privacy, flexibility, and their own space
- Use self-directed services or manage their own budgets
- Are interested in being part of a wider community
The person-first system also makes it easier to build skills over time; people often begin with more support and reduce it as they grow more confident.
Traditional residential facilities
Group homes are often the right choice for people who need in-person support throughout the day. They tend to work better for those who:
- Have complex medical needs that require regular in-person care
- Need six or more hours of direct supports each day
- Require behavioral support that can’t be delivered remotely
- Feel safer and more comfortable in structured and more closely supervised settings
Some people also find the predictability of shared routines and regular staff presence reassuring and helpful.
Choosing between a group home and Smart Living
Every person is different: what works for one individual may not work for another. Some people prefer the structure of a group home, and others feel more at home in their own apartment, where they can make their own choices and build new skills.
If you’re exploring Smart Living, we’re here to help. Our team can walk you through the options, offer a tour of our model apartment, and help you figure out what kind of setup would work best for your situation. Reach out today to get started.
