In the past, there weren’t many options or programs for adults with disabilities. While most nondisabled adults go on to attend college or find full-time work, adults with special needs often faced lonely hours with scarce meaningful activities. Thankfully, more and more programs are now available that aim to enrich the lives of young people and adults with disabilities.
Different organizations will offer different programs. A popular model is the pre-vocational training program. As the name implies, the focus is pre-vocation training in order to improve the skills needed for gainful employment. This is very helpful for adults with disabilities and gives them a bigger chance to proceed to proper vocational training. This kind of program will develop general skills like communicating effectively and following directions. It also teaches things like workplace conduct and workplace problem-solving skills.
For adults with disabilities who are not interested in or not able to pursue pre-vocational training, day habilitation may be a good fit. Also called adult day care, day habilitation programs help people reach their own goals and learn important skills. Participants in these programs will work on things like:
- daily living skills (cleaning, cooking etc.)
- social skills
- personal care
- artistic skills
- self-help
Finding the right program is essential. Take your time and do research to see which one is the best fit. Think about what the goals and needs are. Check your local community center and church groups to see if they offer any programs for adults with disabilities.
