Saturday, November 16, 2013

The Importance of Independent Living Disabilities Programs


Independent living disabilities programs assist people with disabilities to take control of their lives by having the same choices as non-disabled individuals. Disabled people want to continue living with their family, attend the neighborhood school, use public transit, and work in jobs that are in line with their education and interests. They do not want to be pitied nor ashamed.

Private programs have a comprehensive range of services to meet the needs of individuals of all ages with mental retardation, learning disabilities, autism, Asperger's Syndrome, emotional problems, brain injury, behavioral health, physical handicaps, and other developmental disabilities.

Independent living disabilities programs offer an optimum environment for self-worth, social acceptance, and growth. To make independence a reality requires accessible housing, accessible transport, as well as employment, training, and leisure.

There are numerous services, which assist with dressing, housework, cooking, getting to work, and even visiting friends and family.

The key functions of independent living resource centers for the disabled include:

Advocacy

Advocates resolve discrimination and denial of services through mediation with the government, business, and service providers. They also recommend system changes to reflect the needs of people with disabilities. They assist with helping the disabled with interacting with appropriate social services.

Information and Referral

These resource centers act as a clearinghouse of information concerning disability. They also make appropriate referrals to assist the community in learning about disabilities and disability related issues.

Independent Living Skills

Classes are developed to help individuals learn basic and advanced skills to achieve self-reliance. Some classes include credit counseling, homemaking, education opportunities, communication skills, assertiveness training, adaptive cooking, mobility training, nutrition and more.

Peer Counseling

One-on-one counseling, group counseling, and peer support assists individuals with disabilities to help each other on a cross-disability basis. Peers provide assistance and support to increase skills and knowledge that will overcome interpersonal, family, social, financial, interagency and other disability-related challenges.

Technical Assistance

Accessibility surveys are completed for anyone interested in architectural modifications for homes, businesses, or public buildings.

Independent living disabilities programs assist in supporting individuals with disabilities in attaining independent living and the right to select their personal degree of independence.

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