Problems in relation to independent living: a retrospective study of physically disabled school-leavers

Problems in relation to independent living were studied in a cohort of 80 physically disabled young people on average five years after leaving school. 38 per cent were living, or planned to live, independently. This group was more likely to be of average intellectual ability and to have a physical impairment other than cerebral palsy. Of the 35 per cent who felt that their physical disabilities were such that they would be unable to manage without care from parents in the family home, at least 80 per cent needed daily help with personal hygiene, dressing and travel. 90 per cent of the parents interviewed felt that their son or daughter should not live independently. Counselling of the young person and parent from an earlier stage to allow forward planning is recommended, and will be easier if there is a choice of accommodation and style of living available.