Reframing independence
Independence is a concept that we’re all familiar with. It almost seems odd to be discussing it. Yet I know, as a disabled adult, that independence can be a core aspect when transitioning from adolescence to adulthood.
Independence is what you want from life. Surely it’s the end goal for everyone. When you’re disabled you might have been told you’ll never be independent. I hope to challenge those views. But what does independence mean?
Defining independence
Like most people, I immediately went to Google when wanting the definition of a word. This is what it said:
Independent (adjective):
- free from outside control; not subject to another’s authority.
- “an independent nuclear deterrent“
- not depending on another for livelihood or subsistence.
- “I wanted to remain independent in old age“
I’m not saying everyone can do everything for themselves. We all need help with certain things. I believe independence to be more than that.
To me, independence is:
- being your own person
- having choice over what you do in life
- the ability to persue goals
As a disabled adult, my own perspective of independence has been challenged. This was especially the case when transitioning from adolescence to adulthood. I didn’t fit into the conventional definition of being independent.
Altered independence as a disabled adult
When I was doing my university dissertation, I researched the transition from adolescence to adulthood with cerebral palsy. Despite this reflecting my own lived experiences, I found the findings so interesting. One of my main themes was altered independence.
Read more — Cerebral Palsy: Transitioning from adolescence to adulthood
The end result is the same, it’s just how you get there that can be different. This could be support in the conventional sense like practical help from someone else, or it could be the use of adaptations and technology. We all have an element of altered independence in our lives.
Even if that’s as simple as using a blender rather than cutting things up, or asking Alexa to set a timer for 20 minutes. You are still using something to aid your independence.
For disabled people, the alterations might be more of a conscious choice due to their condition or impairment. We might search for adaptions that enable us to complete a task and be independent. For example, here are some blog posts from other disabled bloggers:
- 20 things the Amazon Echo can make easier for blind and visually impaired people (Life of a Blind Girl: Holly Turk)
- Coming to Terms with Needing AAC in the Professional World (Not So Terrible Palsy: Georgia Vine)
- Empowering Disabled People to be More Independent (Gem Turner)
Exploring my independence
I have been living by myself for about 6 months. It’s the first time I have lived alone in my own house. Previously I have lived in university halls, a shared house, and at home. I would class myself as fairly independent. One of the things that helps me cook is buying pre-chopped fruit and vegetables — my freezer is literally full of the stuff! Yet I’ve done certain things to support my independence. For example, I have:
- magnifiers all round the house
- a shower chair and extra rails in the bathroom
- extra railings on the stairs
- extra lighting around the house
- a phone that can be used as a magnifier or read out text
- screen reader software on my work computer
- liquid level indicator
- a Ring doorbell so I can let people know I’m coming to the door
- tactile markers on the oven and washing machine
- AFO splints so I can walk further
- mobility aids (long white cane and walking stick)
Read more — Getting a guide dog: I’m on the waiting list!
To clarify, I do live around the corner from my parents. If I did need something, they’d be able to help. I also struggle to leave the house without the support of someone or using train assistance. I’m currently on the waiting list for a guide dog, and have been for nearly 2 years. When I’m matched with a dog, this will further aid my altered independence. In the meantime I have my long white cane.
You can be independent and have support. This can range from technology to 24 hour support from a personal assistant (PA) or carer. But why is it important that disabled adults have independence?
The importance of independence
Independence is often key to self-acceptance and higher levels of confidence in our abilities. It can be hard growing up when you’re disabled. You might need more support from your parents or not be able to do the things your peers can. Gaining independence, however that looks, can feel like ’normality’.
As a young disabled adult, that’s often a top priority. How can I be like everyone else? I’m not suggesting we should be, but the desire is innate. As a result, it can be a big adjustment when you realise your independence is ‘altered’. However, I believe everyone can find their version of independence.
The importance of adult services and the need for support couldn’t be more critical for disabled people. But I feel like that’s a whole new blog post!
~ Chloe x
