Independent Living and Life Skills Training

As young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) approach the independence of adulthood, mastering essential life skills becomes a significant emphasis. From personal finance to housekeeping abilities, ABA therapy guides this transition.

Comprehensive Life Skills

Based on individual readiness and need, therapists assess and design interventions to systematically teach skills across domains, including:

Financial Literacy

• Budgeting income and money management

• Shopping, spending and saving responsibly

• Using technology for banking and paying bills

Home Management

• Grocery shopping, meal planning and preparation

• Cleaning, laundry and yard work routines

• Scheduling appointments and transportation

Health and Safety

• Medication management and treatment adherence

• Identifying emergencies and crisis problem-solving

• Practicing first aid and personal safety strategies

Daily Scheduling

• Time management and punctuality

• Creating and following a routine

• Planning and preparing for activities

Instruction progresses through task analysis, visual supports, video modeling, reinforcement for successive approximations, and in-vivo practice across natural settings with faded support over time.

The Power of Experiences

In addition to direct instruction, embedding life skills experiences through community-based trips is highly effective. Some examples include:

• Using public transportation

• Banking and budgeting with sample finances

• Grocery shopping and cooking meals

• Touring apartment showings

• Practicing job interviews

• Orientation to medical and government offices

These real-world exposures build invaluable insights while providing opportunities for hands-on guidance and feedback.

Fostering Independence and Confidence

Ultimately, comprehensive life skills training develops problem-solving abilities, self-reliance, and decision-making - hallmarks of independence. Promoting choice-making throughout the process nurtures self-determination.

Regular self-monitoring checklists and goal-setting encourage accountability too. As capabilities increase, positive reinforcement gradually transitions to more naturally maintaining consequences.

With patient progression through systematically acquired life skills, young adults can gain the confidence and competence to successfully navigate many of adulthood's responsibilities, dramatically improving their quality of life.