One of our members is making the transition from child to adult. It is a huge change for anyone but for someone with a disability it becomes monumental. The main one is that the source and amount of funding is very different and the amounts decrease significantly. The second one is that there is no one out there to help you through this transition. You find out about things by the hit and miss method. If you are lucky, you hit and if you are not lucky you miss. If you have developmental issues the Community Living Society is there to help but if you have physical challenges there is no one at present that can help one through the process. Because Emily is going through this change right now, we asked her to document the whole process in our blog. We hope it will stimulate dialog and the exchange of information and resources. Please send in your comments.
I will be the first to admit that moving day was scary. It was so new and exciting and surprising that I didn’t feel ready. It has been approxomately two months of learning as I go. Here are some things I am still learning:
- Have a support system- An adjustment like this cannot be made without a solid support system. Mine includes my parents and siblings, one of whom agreed to become my roommate. When others are committed to your success and well-being, you can go much farther than you can alone. Discover, or rediscover, the people who will help you make this transition. Trust me, it will make it much easier!
- Get plenty of rest-This tip may seem obvious, but it is important. If you are rested you will be less stressed. Less stress means you will have an easier time moving in and adjusting to your new surroundings. You will be better for it.
- Get Organized-Being organized will help keep you from getting overwhelmed with the enormous task of moving. Find a place with adequate storage space. If you tend to keep things you don’t need, it might be a good idea to garage sale before you move. This can be especially helpful if you are downsizing. Once you know what you are bringing with you, find a place for everything and keep everything in its place. If you have a physical disability, being organized will help if you are trying to locate something specific, it’s even more helpful if someone else is trying to find it for you. An organized house leads to a less cluttered life.
- Live Modestly- Living independently with a disability is expensive. Find ways to save money. Watch movies instead of cable TV. Eat in more often than you eat out. Turn off lights when you can. You will definitely appreciate the extra money
- Make Your House A Home- To make your new surroundings more familiar, personalize them! Use paint colors you enjoy. Hang your favorite photos and artwork. Buy furniture that compliments your style. Do whatever you do to make your new house ‘home’.
I hope these tips help you as you move. It’s a transition worth making.