LETTING GO: The challenges of planning for independence in a rural community

by Willie Daviis

The first step in planning for the movement from special education to life after high school is identifying the options. Here is where people in small communities run into problems. There are usually not a lot of options.  As most tribal members know very well, family life on a reservation in general can take on unique challenges. But, if your family includes a person with a disability or special needs, even more challenges are ahead. Not only are the families' daily routines affected in the present, but, their planning for the future provides more challenges, especially, if that family member is in a wheelchair, has limited mental capacity and/or limited communication abilities.

     When persons with disabilities or special needs complete high school there are limited services or opportunities for them to participate. The result may be that the person is homebound and isolated. Many people have to find opportunities on their own. Talk with Counselors, Vocational Rehabilitation or county, state training programs, before completing high school. Explore options, including training and/or employment opportunities.

For older adults who acquire a disability, becoming independent can be more of a problem and they are at the mercy of their Tribal Council, advocacy groups or family members to find activities or services in their community. If they do find services, getting there can be a problem, given the lack of transportation or accommodating vehicles.

     There are many influences that affect why persons with disabilities or special needs do not become productive members of their communities and do not participate in family activities, etc. Some of these influences are within the individuals' control. For example, problems with alcohol and/or drugs can affect anyone. However, when a person has a disability their addictions and problems can be compounded by daily obstacles encountered by disability. This contributes to the inability of family members or the individual themselves to maintain a positive and healthy lifestyle. A person who has acquired a disability later in life due to alcohol or drug abuse may only know this kind of lifestyle and daily routine.

     However, there are also plenty of individuals who desire independence and don't know how to reach this goal. Given the high unemployment rate and limited resources many of these individuals are stuck in a routine that does not meet their goals but cannot see any options. If family members do not know about resources or services that help their disabled family member then they will take care of these needs for their relative. This may help the person in the short term, but can have lasting effects in the long term. Many of them become dependent on that person(s) and cannot do things for themselves, even if they have the capabilities to do so.

WHAT CAN FAMILIES AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS DO?

If there were resources available, such as an independent living center then these individuals could locate services to participate in a more meaningful lifestyle. They would have the opportunity to learn about resources and gain better independent skills. Communities can put together information from their counties, state or national affiliations that would help families or persons with disabilities locate appropriate services.

If your family member would like to learn more about disability issues then providers such as Spirit Lake Consulting can train them. You can also ask your school to request teachers or other professionals to attend training workshops. These training options can provide your community more disability awareness.

NEXT: Learning to be independent