Having independence and autonomy over oneself are two very important aspects of feeling empowered, and one of the best ways to achieve this is through Independent living for individuals with disabilities. For many adults with disabilities, living independently may be something aspirational, but it also may cause some worry around whether or not their particular needs will be met. Luckily, there are many ways that adults with disabilities can enjoy all the benefits of living independently while getting all of the care and support you need. To give you some information on your journey to independence, here are some helpful methods and resources to help empower individuals with disabilities through living independently-
Finding the Best Accommodations
One of the ways that people with disabilities can achieve living independently is through adaptations and accommodations in their homes. Having your home equipped with assistive and adaptive technology to help you in your everyday life can enable you to live with confidence and without the need of in-person assistance, adding a level of independence to your life. These home accommodations may include mobility aids, such as stairlifts or ramps, visual aids, such as special lights or increased size of label text, and much, much more. Delta Center is proud to offer access to adaptive technologies that can boost independence, such as adaptive telephones that can accommodate a number of needs. More resources on assistive technology can be found at Missouri Assistive Technology.
Establish a Strong Support System
Living independently can be a big step for many individuals with disabilities. When going through any kind of big change, even a positive one like independence, it is important to have a strong support system around you to help with the physical, mental, and emotional effects change can have. This support system can be made up of your family, your friends, your colleagues, and even your medical care team. For some, this support system can take the form of an organization that supports individuals with disabilities or even your specific disabilities in particular. These centers know what independent living can look like for people with your disabilities, and therefore be able to help and support you on a more personal level. A list of some of these disability-specific organizations can be found on our resources page.
Seeking Out Learning or Employment Opportunities
For adults with disabilities, living independently can go hand in hand with 
other independence-centered activities, such as employment and education. Whether you are seeking a job or educational opportunities with your newfound confidence from independent living or vice versa, these can be huge chances to exercise your autonomy and power as an independent person. In other words, seeking these opportunities out can help you further harness the empowerment independence gives you, and build on with your own employment or education. For more information on employment and educational opportunities for adults with disabilities, visit our resources page.
Get the Best Care for You
When you reach the point that you are able to live independently, it is important that while your living situation may change, access to the care that you need should not be compromised. Luckily, there are many ways that you can live independently and still receive all the care you require. One of those options are consumer-directed services (CDS), which enable you to have full control over how you receive your care in your home. You choose and hire your attendant, who can even be a friend or family member if you prefer, serve as their employer, and work with your providers on developing your personalized care plan, all while living independently in your own home. For more information about CDS, visit our information page.
Living independently gives adults with disabilities more freedom and control over every aspect of life. This can improve not only mental health, physical health, and social involvement, but also overall quality of life. This is why Delta Center is here to help you find your power and freedom through independent living. We have an extensive wealth of independent living resources, including information and referral, help with advocacy, support and connection to peers, access to durable medical equipment (DME) for those that qualify, and much more. Our focus is on you, to increase your independence, remove barriers, and promote positive changes. For more information, visit our independent living services page, and open yourself up to a world of possibilities.