DIRECT Center for Independence Frequently Asked Questions
About Independent Living Skills training
What is Independent Living Skills training?
People with disabilities may have difficulty performing activities of daily living that others take for granted. "Activities of daily living" include everything from getting up in the morning, getting in bed at night, and everything in between. Cooking and cleaning, use of public transportation, budgeting, balancing a checkbook, engaging in hobbies or recreational activities... all of these skills and more may take a little more time, or may take a whole new way of doing things.
The purpose of independent living skills training is to provide people with basic skills that support their independent living lifestyles.
What classes does DIRECT offer in Independent Living Skills training?
This program teaches people the skills to maintain self-reliance in their everyday lives. All classes are designed to meet individual needs, and are offered on a one-to-one basis. Classes include basic money management, checking/budgeting money management, mobility training, home management, and nutrition/cooking. Interpersonal socialization skills training is offered through a on a peer mentoring model in a group setting.
Top of the Page
How do I get started?
Call DIRECT at 624-6452 and ask for the ILS trainer. You do not have to provide medical documentation of your disability. The trainer will set an intake appointment, during which the trainer and consumer will discuss the individuals goals, review the goals for each class, and set a training schedule.
Is there a cost?
There is never a cost to the consumer for any of the classes offered at DIRECT, with the exception of the ingredients for the nutrition/cooking class. After the initial introduction to the kitchen a recipe will be chosen by the trainer and consumer. The consumer then provides the ingredients for that recipe.
How long does it take?
All classes are provided to the consumer without regard to a time frame. Each class includes a list of goals that the consumer signs off on when each goal is accomplished. The consumer decides if he or she has met that goal, with input from the trainer.
What is the Youth Advisory Board?
The Youth Advisory Board provides individual and family counseling to disabled youth ages 14 to 22 and their families, provide technical support to special education teachers, assisting students with goals of their Individualized Education Plan (IEP), provide advocacy to parents in facilitating IEP'S, parent workshops and support groups, disability sensitivity training in the schools, technical assistance to regular classroom teachers in accommodating youth with disabilities. Summer activities include opportunities to meet positive role models, socialization, career exploration and a youth support group.
Top of the Page
|
