1. Managing money.
Being able to effectively manage money is important for independent living. This includes being able to create a budget and track expenses, as well as understanding banking, interest rates, and other financial concepts. It also includes understanding the concept of credit and how to responsibly use it. Additionally, individuals should be familiar with taxes and filing requirements.
2. Preparing meals.
Being able to prepare meals is a necessary skill for independent living, as it allows individuals to maintain good nutrition and save money. This includes the ability to follow directions, measure ingredients, and use appliances safely and effectively. It also includes understanding the importance of food safety practices such as proper storage and safe temperatures for cooking foods.
3. Housekeeping/Maintenance.
Housekeeping involves being able to do basic cleaning tasks such as dusting, vacuuming, mopping floors, washing dishes, etc., as well as doing basic repairs around the home. This may include replacing light bulbs or unclogging drains, or other small repair tasks that require some technical knowledge of how to use tools and appliances.
4. Transportation/Travel.
Being able to get around independently is an important part of independent living, and requires the individual to understand how to use public transportation, or how to drive safely if they are able to do so. It also involves understanding how to read maps and use navigation systems in order to get from one location to another. Additionally, it can include being familiar with air travel regulations and baggage requirements if needed.
5. Accessing community resources.
Accessing community resources includes understanding how different services work in the local area, such as healthcare providers, banks, stores, etc., as well as knowing when and how to apply for various benefits and programs that may be available in the local area.
6. Communication/interpersonal skills/socialization.
Being able to effectively communicate and interact with other people is an important life skill, and includes knowing how to express oneself verbally, as well as being able to read body language and nonverbal cues from others. Additionally, it involves understanding cultural norms for interacting with other individuals in different settings.
7. Shopping.
Being able to shop for groceries or other items is an important part of independent living, as it allows individuals the freedom to purchase goods and services when needed. This includes understanding basic concepts such as price comparison shopping, reading labels, using coupons, etc., as well as being familiar with return policies and store hours.
8. Using technology and equipment.
In today’s world, being able to use technology is an important skill that can help individuals manage their daily lives more effectively. This includes understanding how to use computers, phones, tablets, as well as other specialized equipment such as medical devices or kitchen appliances.
9. Problem-solving/decision-making.
Being able to identify problems and make effective decisions is a necessary life skill for independent living. This involves being able to think critically about different scenarios in order to come up with the best solution. It also involves understanding basic concepts of risk management and being comfortable with taking reasonable risks in order to reach a desired goal.
10. Medication management and other independent health-related activities.
Being able to properly manage medications and other health-related activities such as checking for signs of illness or being familiar with how to access medical services is an important part of independent living. This includes understanding how to read medication labels, follow dosage instructions, recognize potential side effects, and when to seek medical assistance if needed. Additionally, it can involve knowing how to make healthy lifestyle choices in regard to diet and exercise.