Resources to empower independent living
Whether you're exploring support options for yourself or a loved one, this page is packed with tools, guides, and insights to help you take the next step toward independent living.
Independent Living Guides & Tips
Explore practical advice and step-by-step guides designed to help adults with disabilities build the skills they need to live more independently.
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Establishing a consistent daily routine is key to independent living for adults with disabilities. This guide offers practical tips and examples for creating structure, setting goals, and using visual schedules. Learn how Life Skills Mentors help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities build sustainable routines that support greater independence and self-confidence.
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From grocery lists to easy meal prep, this article breaks down how adults with disabilities can manage nutrition and shopping with greater independence. Discover how our Life Skills Mentors provide real-world coaching in planning balanced meals, navigating stores, and building healthy habits—all essential skills for successful independent living.
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Financial literacy is an important step toward independent living. This guide explores budgeting basics, tracking expenses, and setting savings goals for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Learn how our Direct Support Program empowers individuals to manage their money confidently and avoid common financial pitfalls.
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Transportation can open the door to freedom—but it takes skill and planning. This article provides safety tips, route planning tools, and confidence-building strategies for adults with disabilities learning to navigate buses, trains, and ride-share services. Our Life Skills Mentors offer hands-on support for travel training in real community settings.
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Moving into your own place is a big step! This guide helps adults with disabilities prepare for independent living with tips on home organization, chores, communication with landlords, and building daily life skills. Explore how Life Skills Mentors can help make the transition smooth and successful in inclusive housing settings.
Resources
For Families & Caregivers
Supporting a loved one’s journey to independence can be exciting—and overwhelming. These guides are here to help:
“I’ve been doing my own laundry, which I like to do. It’s very calm and relaxing. It makes me feel more independent.”
Jeffrey, Life Skills Mentor Client
“For 22 years we made Jack a sandwich because we believed he couldn’t make a sandwich. Then, he moves into Cohome and he’s like, ‘I can make a sandwich.”
Maryann, Parent of a Life Skills Mentors Client
“Nothing can compare to seeing a client exceed their own expectations and discover their true potential.”
Katrina, Life Skills Mentor
Want to learn more?
Our FAQ page covers everything from who we are and how our inclusive housing works, to program costs, eligibility, and how to get started.