What is Independent Living?
Understanding the philosophy and practice of independent living for people with disabilities.
The Definition
Independent living is the ability to make decisions about and participate in life, work, and play in the same ways as people without disabilities.
It does not mean doing everything alone or without support. Rather, it means having the freedom, resources, and support to live on your own terms, choosing where you live, how you spend your time, who assists you, and what goals you pursue.
The independent living movement grew out of the disability rights movement of the 1960s and 70s, when people with disabilities began organizing to demand equal rights, access, and self-determination, the same freedoms enjoyed by people without disabilities.
"Independent living is not about independence from others, it's about independence from barriers."
Core Principles
Self-Determination
People with disabilities have the right to make their own choices and direct their own lives, including decisions others might disagree with.
Equal Access
Full participation in community life requires accessible housing, transportation, employment, education, and public spaces.
Peer Support
People who have navigated disability themselves are uniquely positioned to support others. Shared experience is a powerful resource.
Systems Advocacy
Changing policies, attitudes, and environments is just as important as providing direct services to individuals.
Consumer Control
Services should be designed and delivered by and for people with disabilities, not done to them by outside experts.
Community Integration
Living independently means being part of the broader community, not segregated into institutions or specialized settings.
How SPOKES Supports Independent Living
As a Center for Independent Living, SPOKES Unlimited puts these principles into practice every day. Our peer counselors, most of whom have disabilities themselves, work alongside consumers to identify goals, navigate systems, and build the skills and connections needed to live more independently.
We believe that the people who best understand the challenges of living with a disability are those who have lived it. That's why peer support is at the heart of everything we do.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Our team is here to help you explore what independent living can look like for you. Reach out today.
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