What is independence?

Independence is all about handling your own life without needing much help from others. 

For autistic individuals, what independence looks like can vary a lot from one person to another because autism affects everyone differently. It’s key to remember that independence for autistic individuals isn't about fitting into a standard mould. Instead, it’s about tailoring support and development to match each person’s unique abilities, needs, and interests. This personalised approach helps everyone reach their potential for living independently in a way that feels right and fulfilling for them.

Degrees of independence

Autism is quite diverse, with a range of symptoms that can differ widely from person to person. This means each person's journey to independence is unique. Some might achieve full independence, managing all aspects of their lives without support. Others might reach semi-independence, where they can do many tasks independently but still need some help with more complex responsibilities.

Development of independent living skills

Independence involves various skills that need to be nurtured over time. Here, we explore some key areas:

• Self-help and determination: For individuals with autism, being aware of their emotional, physical, and cognitive states is crucial. This self-awareness can empower them to set realistic goals and strive to achieve them. Determination and a clear understanding of self can significantly enhance an individual’s ability to pursue independence.
• Managing behavioural challenges: Behavioural challenges can set back independence. Individuals with autism need to learn how to manage their emotions and behaviour effectively. This often requires comprehensive communication strategies and coping mechanisms that allow them to respond to stress in healthy ways.
• Money management: Financial independence is a critical aspect of living independently. This includes managing a bank account, understanding the use of credit and debit cards, handling cash, and planning for future financial needs. For some, it might also involve learning when and how to seek financial advice or assistance.
• Maintaining relationships: Social skills are integral to independence. The ability to express thoughts, feelings, and needs is crucial not only for personal relationships but also for professional ones. Developing these skills can lead to satisfying friendships, romantic relationships, and successful workplace interactions.

Expanding skills

• Communication skills: Effective communication involves more than just verbal exchanges; it also includes non-verbal cues such as body language and facial expressions. Autistic individuals may benefit from therapies that enhance their ability to interpret and use both forms of communication.
• Personal skills: These include tasks like grooming, dressing, and maintaining personal hygiene, which contributes to personal independence and self-esteem.
• Domestic skills: Cooking, cleaning, and general home management are essential for living independently. Tailored learning approaches can help autistic individuals acquire these skills at their own pace.
• Workplace skills: Professional environments require unique skills ranging from task management to interpersonal relations. Career training tailored to an individual’s capabilities can help them succeed in the workplace.

The role of support workers and carers

Support workers and carers play an important role in helping autistic individuals work towards independence. They can provide assistance and guidance in various areas, including:

• Housekeeping: Learning to clean and maintain a living space is an important skill. Support workers can teach individuals how to tidy their homes, do laundry, and manage household chores.
• Personal care and hygiene: Maintaining personal hygiene is essential for overall health and wellbeing. Carers can help individuals establish routines for bathing, brushing teeth, grooming, and dressing appropriately.
• Meal preparation: Cooking and preparing meals are vital skills for independence. Support workers can guide individuals through planning meals, grocery shopping, and cooking simple, nutritious dishes.
• Daily routines: Establishing and sticking to a daily routine can be beneficial. Carers can assist in creating structured schedules that incorporate time for work, leisure, and self-care activities.

Support workers and carers offer assistance while encouraging individuals to gradually take on more responsibilities. This step-by-step approach helps build confidence and skills over time, encouraging greater independence.

The role of technology and assistive technology

Technology and assistive technology (AT) can be game-changers for autistic individuals striving for independence. These tools can aid in various aspects of daily life, making tasks more manageable and less stressful. Some examples include:

• Communication devices: For those who struggle with verbal communication, devices like speech-generating apps and communication boards can be incredibly helpful.
• Time management apps: Apps that help with scheduling and reminders can assist individuals in managing their time effectively, ensuring they keep up with their daily routines and appointments.
• Assistive apps for daily living: There are apps designed to help with cooking, shopping, and other daily tasks, offering step-by-step instructions and reminders.
• Safety devices: Wearable devices and home monitoring systems can provide an added layer of safety, giving individuals and their families peace of mind.
• Educational software: Programs that help develop specific skills, such as money management or job training, can be valuable resources for learning and practising new abilities.

For individuals with autism, independence can be fully or semi-achieved, depending on personal circumstances and support systems. The goal is to maximise their potential for independence by providing personalised support that aligns with their abilities and life goals. Autistic individuals can lead rich, fulfilling lives, complete with relationships, careers, and personal achievements, each finding their own path to independence based on their unique strengths and challenges.

Funding to support independence

Some autistic adults may be eligible for funding to support living independently or transitioning to independent living. It’s important to know what funding options are available to make informed decisions.

The NDIS may offer funding for home and living support, including home modifications and services for personal care, household management, and social skills. Key options include Supported Independent Living (SIL), which provides support services for independent living in various settings such as individual homes, shared housing, or Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), which offers purpose-built or modified housing for those with significant support needs, suitable for living alone or with others.

In addition to the NDIS, other funding options include Disability Support Pension (DSP) which offers financial support for those unable to work due to a permanent condition and other Centrelink Payments such as Youth Allowance for young people studying, training, or looking for work. Exploring these funding options can provide the necessary resources for autistic individuals and their families to achieve a more independent and fulfilling life.