Daily Living & Support Terms
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
Essential self-care tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, and personal hygiene that support independence.
Community-Based Instruction (CBI)
A teaching method that helps individuals develop life skills by practicing real-world activities in community settings, such as grocery shopping or using public transportation.
Executive Functioning Supports
Tools and strategies designed to help individuals manage tasks, time, organization, and decision-making, which are crucial for daily living.
Home and Community-Based Services
Support services are provided in a person’s home or community rather than in an institutional setting, often funded through Medicaid waivers.
Independent Living Skills
Skills that help individuals live as independently as possible, including cooking, budgeting, cleaning, and transportation management.
Life Skills Training
Programs that teach practical skills for independent living, such as self-care, communication, and job readiness.
Personal Care Assistant (PCA)
An individual who provides one-on-one support to help with daily living activities, either in the home or community.
Respite Care
Temporary caregiving services that provide relief to primary caregivers by offering short-term supervision and support for individuals with disabilities.
Self-Advocacy
The ability to understand and communicate one’s needs, rights, and preferences, particularly in education, healthcare, and daily life settings.
Social Stories
Personalized short stories that use words and visuals to explain social situations, expectations, or routines in a clear and structured way.
Supported Employment
A program that helps individuals with disabilities find and maintain meaningful employment with job coaching and workplace accommodations.
Transportation Training
Instruction on how to use public transportation safely and independently, including understanding routes, schedules, and social norms.
Visual Schedules
A tool that uses images, icons, or written steps to outline daily routines and activities, helping individuals manage transitions and expectations