Living
independently... what's it all about? It's about living on your
own, being responsible for yourself, controlling your own life
and making your own decisions and taking risks! It can be challenging
at times, but it can also be very rewarding. Think about why
you feel you should live independently. Is it because people
think you should, or because you want to? Ask yourself why you
want to live on your own.
Moving In
Pack breakable items  to
ensure they remain secure during the move. Don't pack things
in newspapers - the black ink may get all over your belongings,
like dishes, and then you will have to wash them again. Use
paper towel - when you unpack, you can use them for cleaning
in your new place.
Safety in the Home
Burns. Place burns (including sunburns) immediately under cool
water to relieve pain and swelling.
If cool water is not available, use anything cold, such as a
cold juice bottle that can be rolled over the skin. Don't put
anything else on a burn unless you know the burn is minor. Only
put something that is cold and wet (like a damp tea towel) on
the burn until a doctor looks at it. Do not breathe on, cough
over or touch the burned area. If the burn is minor, wipe
with aloe vera plant juice. Dress with a burn ointment and sterile
gauze. Never break blisters.
Looking after Yourself
When you're on your own, it's natural to be lonely at times.
You lived with your family or other people for many years, and
you may need time to get used to being alone. There are many
ways to cope.
Housekeeping
Drying laundry. If you do not have access to a clothes dryer
or do not wish to use one, buy a folding dryer rack from a
department or hardware store. It folds up easily when not
in use. If hanging clothes up to dry, avoid using metal hangers,
which can leave rust stains.
What's Cooking?
Read labels. Try to get in the habit of reading the ingredient
lists on products before you buy them. Try not to buy products
that are loaded with sugars (glucose, fructose, sucrose, etc.)
. Also watch for monosodium
glutamate (MSG), sulphates, and artificial colours and flavours,
which bother some people. Ingredients
are listed on the label in the order of those contained in
highest amounts.
Getting along with Others.
Learn to read body language.
It can help you understand others and know how they are feeling.
Also be aware of what your own body language says to others.
Remember that body language can give clues, but it's not always
an accurate indicator of how someone is feeling.
Managing Time, Goals and Stress
"Hard work, perseverance
and belief in myself. At times, I've failed, but I've
learned to keep trying. You can't grow or succeed unless you
risk failure. It hurts, but
it does pass."
Choosing Your Path
Research your options. Before you reject a possible career
because you think you can't do the job, find out more about
your options. Are there some assisting devices or technologies
that would enable you to succeed at the job.
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