Every action and decision we make each day is rooted in a skill. In fact, you’re probably much more skilled than you give yourself credit for. Typing, reading, comprehension – these are just a few examples of basic life skills you likely use to explore the world around you.
Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) can utilize life skills to bolster their independence. For many in the disability community, life skills can be challenging to navigate. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
A life skill can be any skill an individual needs to participate in everyday life. When we talk about life skills for adults with IDD, though, we’re primarily focusing on core life skills . These relate specifically to how individuals think, learn, and care for themselves daily.
Everyone needs life skills. But for adults with IDD, life skills can represent a lot more than being able to care for oneself. They can inspire confidence, enable individuality, and ensure individuals lead the lives they aspire to.
More potential life skills are out there than we could list at once. Still, some independent life skills stand out as key parts of an adult lifestyle. These core skills can help adults with disabilities advocate for themselves and engage with others.
The ultimate goal is to put as much power in the hands of the individual in question as possible as they navigate daily life.
Forming social bonds, expressing thoughts and feelings, and sharing experiences are just a few examples of communication skills. What communication looks like can vary. It might be written, verbal, or even portrayed through images, gestures, and eye contact.
Communication is crucial for self-advocacy and self-care. Finding support and reaching out to others is a core part of independent life for many adults with disabilities.
This skill involves understanding safety precautions and knowing how to respond when safety risks emerge. Emergencies aren’t the only contexts where safety is important, though. Something as simple as safely crossing the street can fall into this category.
When things don’t go as planned, or obstacles arise, it’s important to feel able to respond. Problem-solving skills often stem from a knowledge of what other resources and solutions are available. They also require a willingness or ability to try new things and take risks.
Navigating the world with ease is something many of us take for granted. Understanding transportation options is an essential life skill – it helps adults access the care and resources they need. It also enables adults to hold steady jobs, visit loved ones, and more.
Caring for oneself is arguably the most fundamental life skill, but it comprises many smaller sub-skills. Shopping, budgeting, cooking, cleaning, and more can all impact how fully an individual can tackle personal care.
Just like learning to tie your shoe or ride a bike, independent life skills take time and patience to develop. But that doesn’t mean you can’t do anything to help make things easier for yourself or a loved one.
Use assistive tools and technology. Assistive technologies exist to make life easier. Take advantage of them whenever possible.
Below are some resources you can use to get started on life skill practice and development.
A document designed to help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities grow their social skills and form new relationships.
A comprehensive resource on identifying and building life skills for adults with disabilities and their families.
An app for tablets and mobile devices designed to help users visualize and complete daily routines or tasks. While the app is aimed at children with developmental disabilities, its features may still be useful for adults who enjoy using tech as part of their routine.
A program created by the State of California to connect individuals with disabilities with the resources, services, and support they deserve.
At NeuroNav, we’re here to help you navigate SDP and other disability resources so that you can pursue your goals. Learn more about our services or schedule a free consultation with our team to discover more options for support.
