Self-advocacy is vital for individuals with autism and IDD to be able to speak up for their rights and needs. It allows people’s voices to be heard and listened to by their support network to have a choice on the plans put in place for care and setting personal goals without the process being taken over. Self-advocacy for people with disabilities means they can live independently and with dignity, making their own choices with support from family and professionals.
Key Features of Self-Advocacy
People with disabilities often have their lives planned out for them whether by family or professionals. From medical care and daily routines to living situations and even hobbies, decisions are regularly made on their behalf and while it is well-meaning and protective from their support network, it however silences the individual and can make them feel ignored.
Support networks need to understand that people with IDD can make their own decisions and make sure their voices are heard. Self-advocacy is a fundamental right to help shape their future rather than being told what to do. Here are the key features of self-advocacy:
- Understand disability rights – understand legal acts and disability laws so individuals know what type of help and support they can ask for in healthcare, housing and employment.
- Supported decision making – listen to the individuals needs and help them make a decision without making it for them.
- Express wants and needs – the individual should communicate personal wants and needs clearly, whether through speech, written notes or alternative communication and family must listen to what they have to say.
- Set personal goals – both short and long term personal goals should be discussed which can boost confidence and independence. Short term goals may include daily living and mobility skills, health and social improvements with long term goals including ideas about future living arrangements, employment and financial independence.
How to Encourage Self-Advocacy
People with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities are regularly being told what to do and how to live, especially when it comes to care and daily routines. With self-advocacy they will be able to take control of their life and make decisions that suit their wants and needs. Here are ways to practice self-advocacy:
- Small steps – start with small everyday choices such as what to wear and do before considering bigger choices such as housing or a job.
- Be prepared – think about important concerns or questions before meetings with doctors or social workers.
- Peer connection – connect with self-advocate organizations and networks meeting with others with IDD and share experiences and improve confidence.
- Accessible Tools – use visual aids, text to speech and alternative communication to provide a voice for the individual.
Family support networks should always encourage self-advocacy to ensure the individual’s needs are heard. Path-Now connects individuals to a range of autism and intellectual and developmental disability services California tailored to the individual’s needs with access to professional and local support and resources.
