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Home   : Illness & disability   : Becoming independent

Becoming independent

A blind girl sitting on a bench.

Being independent means that you are able to rely on yourself to take actions and make choices. Becoming independent is a process that happens over a time. In fact, this process starts well before you become an adult and will keep going on even after you are an adult. Being independent, even as an adult, doesn’t mean you won’t need help sometimes. For instance, you may need help carrying groceries or caring for yourself if you get sick.

Keep in mind that becoming independent doesn’t happen automatically. You can do things to help develop your independence and plan for your future.

Click on the tabs to the left to learn about taking care of yourself at home, on the road, and more. Read an article about gaining independence as a teen with movement difficulties or other chronic condition.

 

Content last reviewed February 16, 2011
Page last updated October 31, 2013

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