Interdependence has always been a way of life for human beings since
the beginning of time. Providing, as well as accepting support at one time or
the other comprises human interactions. People live in a society wherein aid or
assistance is bestowed to whoever is in need, whether it be in an organized or
casual manner.
For a majority of persons with disabilities, support services are
requisite to be able to thrive and actively participate in the community and
society. There are persons to whom disability support services for daily living activities and
social integration are essential. These activities may include personal
hygiene, dressing, and eating. To those who are abler, independent living,
mobility or navigation and employment or financial stability.
Persons with disabilities comprise about 15% of the global population
and the statistics are increasing. At present, assistance for persons with
disabilities comes mostly from their immediate families, which may not be
enough to meet their needs.
The dearth in suitable support services puts persons with disabilities
at risk. It can negatively affect their way of life as it prevents them from
making important decisions and choices. They lose control of the way they live.
The deficiency of formal or organized support systems can be extremely taxing
for persons with disabilities and their families and may increase the probability of
institutionalization.
Seeing persons with disabilities as passive recipients of aid is not
encouraged as it can affect their self-esteem and confidence. Adequately
empowered and given the opportunity for inclusion, they have the capability to
become productive members of society, with their distinct talents and skills.
The assistance should be on the premise of persons with disabilities being
granted a choice and control over their own lives. Independent living doesn't
necessarily mean complete self-sufficiency, but on being able to decide for
oneself and having the means to act on that decision.
There are similarities between accessibility and support, but there
are certain factors that differentiate them. Accessibility pertains to the
physical surroundings, transportation,
information and means of communication. Support is primarily about
aiding and assisting individuals, while accessibility is about environmental
changes that include structural facets like wheelchair ramps, bathroom rails,
etc.
The delivery of accessibility and support must take into consideration
the diversity of persons with disabilities and their particular needs. Services
are supposed to cater to the needs and respect the rights of every individual.
Support services related to health and education should be the focus of
children with disabilities and their families. On the other hand, personal
assistance assisted living arrangements and palliative care may be necessary
for older persons with disabilities.
A Good Support Service:
●
Must
easily be obtained
○
adequate
assistance and support services should be readily available
●
Must be
accessible -
○
services
must be affordable and geographically within reach
○
there should be no discrimination or barriers
in the securing of services
●
Must be
accepting and give respect
○
all
programs and service providers should respect their rights and dignity
●
They
must be given choice and control
○
they
should be given the opportunity to
plan and control their courses of action
