How to Empower the Mentally Disabled
- 1). Ascertain the individual's capabilities. Knowing what tasks a person is able to perform and what types of decisions she is able to make is the first step in empowering a mentally disabled person. For example, you cannot ask someone with a major mental disability to make important decisions about finances or his living situation if he is not fit to make these types of decisions.
- 2). Ask the person's opinion on appropriate questions. For a mentally disabled person who hasn't received much empowering, you will need to start slowly by asking for her input when you make a decision. Listen to her reasons and, if possible, take her advice. If you cannot take her advice, explain why so she doesn't feel as though you've discounted her input.
- 3). Make the person responsible for his daily routine or some part of it. This step will depend on the person's level of ability. You want to encourage him to begin taking care of himself and doing things for himself as much as possible. Trusting him to brush his teeth and get dressed on his own, if this is something he is capable of, will give him more confidence. If he is capable of doing other household chores, such as putting away laundry or taking out the garbage, ask for his help on these tasks too.
- 4). Choose the best living conditions for the individual. If the person is living in a medical facility of some sort, be sure it is the right facility for her. Look for a facility that provides the support she needs but does not do too much for her. This will depend on her abilities and may change over time. Evaluate all facilities in the area and meet with the administrators to determine the best type of facility for the individual.
- 5). Help the individual get a job. Many mentally disabled people hold down jobs or volunteer positions. Depending on the person's abilities, you may need to get him some vocational training before you help him find a job. Encourage him to fill out the required applications, but provide help if he needs it and coach him on what to expect during the interview process.
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