The Value of Lifelong Friendship and the Advantages to Autism
Adults with cerebral palsy or autism share the same aspirations as everybody else: to live fulfilling lives and make a positive contribution to society. They would rather not be identified by their impairment. In contrast, they strive to be recognized for their individuality and value to society. Attaining these objectives can be challenging, particularly in communities where individuals lack access to similar opportunities. Independent living, community involvement, and a social support system are all crucial for people with developmental impairments to achieve their goals in life.
Friendships Offer Many Benefits
Transitioning from being a carefree high school student to a responsible adult is challenging for any young person. Adults with cerebral palsy face additional challenges, though. Moving into an apartment, starting a new career, or enrolling in college are all significant life events. However, not every person with a developmental disability will have these abilities. Young adults with disabilities such as cerebral palsy and autism often express a strong desire for independence. Depending on the severity of additional health issues and the availability of alternative care, staying with parents, siblings, or other family members may be the only option.
Adulthood brings with it a whole new set of rules, laws, and responsibilities that must be adhered to if you want to be taken seriously as a responsible member of society. When adults with cerebral palsy have a social support system and are actively engaged in their communities, they can discover new methods to increase their independence. Managing the difficulties of alone life is difficult, especially if you don’t have easy access to help. Individuals with developmental impairments may be able to live independently with the aid of home health care and care from a caregiver, transportation, education and employment, and vocational programs.
Social Network for Developmental Disabilities
Mastering the art of social interaction is a crucial part of maturing into an independent adult. High school grads are either thrust into college dorm life or the workforce immediately following graduation, depending on the possibilities they pursue. Similar situations exist for adults who have cerebral palsy, but the outcomes will vary based on whether or not they complete high school, find gainful employment, or participate in other forms of vocational training. Depending on their abilities and state of health, a person has the opportunity to establish friends in a variety of settings, including the workplace, school, and the wider community.
The mission of All Friends Network is to help persons with cerebral palsy and autism find and maintain friendships in their local communities through the creation of social engagement opportunities, social event circumstances, and other interactive programs. In order to help our members meet individuals with similar interests and widen their horizons, we provide them with information, support services, and the safe and secure AFN Live-LINK app. Finding a community of people who share your worldview is crucial. To those who have been considering taking the plunge into independent life, this can be incredibly motivating.
Friendship and Autism: How to Meet New Friends
It’s normal to be apprehensive about starting fresh as an adult. You’re in good company. Many resources exist to ease the transition from high school dormitory life to independent adulthood. A variety of aid, materials, and knowledge are made available through these programs. If you’re the type who prefers to go it alone and get where they want to go, there are programs designed to help you achieve your goals with as little outside assistance as possible.
It’s important to understand how to communicate your wants, needs, and desires to others before striking out on your own. Adults who were previously required to spend the rest of their lives at home with a parent or sibling to get care have a new option. The mission of All Friends Network is to provide persons with cerebral palsy, autism, and other developmental impairments with emotional support, opportunities to communicate and socialize with others who share their experiences, and information about available resources. You can reach us at 941-587-7172 if you have any questions regarding our offerings or would want to schedule an appointment.