By Benjamin Kellogg [1] Mar 07, 2012 2
[2]
Learning to Live Independently
In a few months, I will be graduating from college. This signifies that I have learned a lot about different subjects, some of which I will need in order to continue working, and some of which I will probably never have to use to any great extent. However, there are some things which none of my college studies have taught me, things I will need to learn in order to live more independently.
I am going to have to learn how to shave by myself. Currently, my father and mother help me shave. I do not have the hand-eye coordination necessary to safely shave with a razor, so I depend on my parents to perform this duty. We are all intent on buying an electric shaver which I will be able to use effectively on my own. My parents have purchased several that have not worked out for me. I need to obtain one which is easy to use and which I can safely manipulate without accidentally cutting myself. If we can find one that works for me, it will be another step toward independence in my life.
I will also need to learn how to do my own taxes and pay my own bills. I do not worry too much about financial matters because my parents currently advise me and help me understand any financial transactions that I make. I learned about taxes in the money management course I took, but I have not yet put what I learned into practice for myself. After I graduate and have more time to devote to these issues, I want to learn all that I can so that I am able to manage my own finances. My parents have assured me that they will continue to help me in this area.
I will need to learn how to maintain my own apartment or house. I have lived with my parents for my entire life, and they have helped me to learn how to do many chores around the house. I can do the laundry, wash the dishes, clean the bathroom, take out the trash, make some of my own food, maintain my bedroom, and do some light cleaning. I go grocery shopping with my parents, but I will also need to learn to do this on my own. My parents are continually teaching me more and more tasks, and I know that in order for me to live independently, I will need to know how to do everything that is entailed in maintaining an apartment or house.
If I do not learn to drive, I will have to learn how to navigate the public transportation that is available in my area or come up with a plan that will enable me to get around on my own. I am sure that with my parents’ help I will be able to come up with a plan of action and carry it out. I have no interest in driving yet, but there may be a time when I feel comfortable giving it a try.
These are just a few issues that I have thought about and know I will have to work on in the coming days. I am sure there will be many new things that I will have to learn along the way and there will be challenges that I must overcome. With the help from my parents and a little bit of time, I know I will be able to make any adjustments that will be needed and make everything work for me. I have to remember that circumstances in my life will always be changing and I need to be willing to adjust and change with them.
[3]About the Author - - Columnist
Benjamin Kellogg is an adult with ASD. Ben recently completed an Associate's degree in Arts and Humanities and Social Science with a writing concentration.