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Living with Disabilities: Navigating Independence with Confidence
Living with a disability often means finding creative ways to live independently. Whether you’re cooking, commuting, or socializing, independence is about having choices and control in daily life. With thoughtful support and access, independence becomes a path to dignity, growth, and joy.
What Does Independence Look Like?
Independence means different things to different people. It could be:
- Living in your own place with tailored supports
- Getting around safely—whether by transit, walking, driving, or ride services
- Managing daily tasks like meal planning, laundry, and personal care
- Making meaningful decisions about work, leisure, and finances
True independence happens when supports are flexible, respectful, and person-led.
Why Independence Matters
- Self-esteem & confidence – Making your own choices builds pride
- Skill development – Practical tasks strengthen abilities
- Community belonging – Being active in your neighbourhood deepens connections
- Quality of life – Feeling in control leads to happiness
Miguel’s Story
Miguel lives in Kelowna and uses a support worker to help him live independently in his own apartment. He loves cooking and gardening. His worker taught him how to plan meals on a budget and use adaptive kitchen tools.
- Miguel tracks his medication using a talking pill organizer
- He takes the bus to his community garden plot and markets
- He recently made a quick speech at a local gardening event to share his story
Miguel says, “I feel proud of what I do every day.”
Building Independence: What Support Can Look Like
- Assess Strengths & Goals
Support begins with listening:
- What does the person want to do?
- What are they already good at?
Planning tools, visual charts, and goal-setting exercises can help clarify personal aspirations and map out a path forward.
- Use Assistive Tools
The right tools can make daily tasks more accessible. Some examples include:
- Talking labels or medication reminders
- Adaptive kitchen utensils
- Smartphone apps for scheduling or transit
- Visual checklists for tasks like laundry or cooking
Support staff can help individuals learn to use these tools in meaningful ways.
- Teach Skills
Support means teaching, not taking over. Guidance may include:
- Modeling a task step-by-step
- Practicing until the person feels confident
- Using repetition and encouragement
From grocery shopping to meal prep, independence grows through doing.
- Encourage Community Access
Being active in the community supports confidence and inclusion. This could involve:
- Navigating public transit together
- Attending local programs, social outings, or events
- Volunteering or exploring supported employment
Supports should be individualized and built around the person’s interests.
- Step Back When Ready
One of the most powerful ways to support someone is to know when to step back. As a person gains confidence and ability, supports can shift or fade. This promotes:
- Leadership and autonomy
- Greater self-trust
- Lasting independence
Looking Ahead
Independence doesn’t mean doing everything alone — it means having the right supports in place to lead your own life. With the right tools, teaching, and encouragement, people with disabilities can thrive, participate fully in their communities, and make choices with confidence.
Resources
Provincial & General Resources
- Inclusion BC – Advocacy and resources for inclusive housing, education, and community living.
- CLBC – Community Living BC – Provincial agency responsible for connecting eligible adults with developmental disabilities to funded services and supports.
- AutismBC – Support, information, and programs for autistic individuals and their families.
- BC 211 – Community Services Search Tool – Find local disability supports, housing services, and adaptive equipment providers.
- Technology for Living – Offers assistive technology, respiratory support, and home automation tools for people with physical disabilities.
Assistive Tools & Daily Living Supports
- Neil Squire Society – Assistive Technology Program
Helps individuals with disabilities access adaptive tech and ergonomic solutions.
- CanAssist (University of Victoria)
Develops customized technologies for people with disabilities in BC.
Learning, Community & Employment
- Ready, Willing & Able
National initiative supporting inclusive employment for people with intellectual disabilities and autism.
- The Family Support Institute of BC
Peer-to-peer support, planning tools, and community navigation for people with disabilities and their families.