HI, this is to reply to everyone, both supportive and critical. To expand on the situation and my question-
My guest who is actually staying with me does have an intellectual disability. He is considered legally incompetent (legal description, not mine) as he cannot live on his own. He cannot cook for himself, drive, shop for himself, handle money, and more. He can do simple tasks like take showers, brush his teeth, dress himself, microwave his food, do dishes, take out trash. His sister is his legal guardian. She lives in the same city but he does not live at her house for some reason. She cooks meals, buys food, and has him over to her house daily. So she does a lot.
SHE is the name on the Airbnb account, with his picture. He is not able to make Airbnb reservations, nor have a credit or debit card. The reviews there are in HER name. I think before me she had him stay in homes that Airbnb hosts bought and rent out rooms. The hosts do not live there and may never even have met him. I am the first host that lives in the same home and rents out my guest rooms. So I see him on a daily basis. I realized he was intellectually disabled the first night they arrived.
I checked the policies with Airbnb and since she is the legal guardian, she is responsible for him even is something happened at my house. As I think most hosts know, discrimination policies require hosts to accept those with disabilities, but if the person needs enough help the host must provide a place for the caretaker to stay. HIS SISTER DOES NOT STAY WITH HIM. So by default I am somewhat his caretaker. Understand that he is very nice, follows rules/tasks now that he knows his schedule at my house. He trusts and relies now on me to provide company and reminders of his schedule. I do not mind this at all. But as my friends and sister have reminded me, I now do not feel comfortable being gone for very long, never mind being out of town for a week or weekend. I just cannot do that to him right now. I have been home mostly as I am semi-retired and hurt my back recently. So it has worked out for the current time.
His sister is in a very difficult position, as she is trying to get him into a group home here in the US (not sure what they are called in other countries). It is a long, trying process, with her providing info documenting his disabilities, physical issues, blood work, legal guardianship papers and everything else required. This can take months, and she is working with a social worker/case manager. I feel bad for her and mostly him, as his schedule changes as he stays at different Airbnb houses. She has already asked for an extension. He is staying until the end of the month.
As for the critical responses, I do understand disabilities and worked early in my career with intellectually disabled adults and kids. I grew up with an aunt who had Down's Syndrome. I am certainly not being ignorant, unkind or discriminating. This is a totally different situation than not allowing kids, smoking or pets (not support animals); or not making my home accessible.
I sincerely appreciate all comments, suggestions and shared experiences! Thank your for taking your time. TMulligan
