Traditional Views on Family Care and Self-Care for Disabled and/or Special Needs Members
CHIPPEWA/OJIBWA & GREAT PLAINS TRIBAL VIEWS (continued)

Most people, including me, consider it positive that our tribal members with disabilities have traditionally remained with their families. I remember growing up with a relative and seeing community members with severe mental and physical disabilities living with their family and were made part the family outings. One of these individuals  lived to be in her early 50 s. After her mother died her older sister took care of her until she passed away some ten years later.   

While it is most likely better for a person to be with family than in an institution, it is even better if people with disabilities can be in the community and more capable of caring for themselves. Not until more recently has our community moved toward a more inclusive community and changing with the times.  Involving our severely disabled more so by providing Independent Living skills and part-time occupational opportunities. This has also allowed some of those to come out of their shell and become productive members of society. This is partially due to the aging population of parents or limited family members to care for them. Developing self-care skills should start early to allow individuals with disabilities the opportunity to one day participate in the community without constant care from one's family. This can be a difficult way for a relative to think when your child is young, or even if she is older and severely disabled. There is that feeling that we should be taking care of our family member. Remember that sentence in the opening page of this workshop, about giving our family members' wings? They can develop the ability to care for themselves, although it may take more time for some people with disabilities.