Independent living can refer to a philosophy of self-determination for people with disabilities or a type of senior housing that provides an active, maintenance-free lifestyle with access to amenities and community. The philosophy emphasizes consumer control, community integration, and the right to choose the type of support needed. Senior living options often include private suites, common areas, social activities, and customizable services without daily support like medication management or assistance with daily tasks.
As a philosophy for people with disabilities
- Definition: A global movement of people with disabilities advocating for equal opportunities, self-determination, and self-respect.
- Core principles: Services should be consumer-controlled, community-based, and integrated into the community to allow for full participation.
- Goal: To enable people with disabilities to have ordinary life experiences in the community by providing community-based, consumer-controlled services and skills training.
- Key focus: The right to live as independently as they choose, and to ask for the kind of help they want from whoever they want.
As a senior housing option
- Definition: A type of senior living community for active and healthy seniors who can live on their own but want to live in a convenient, social environment.
- Features:
- Private suites that residents can decorate and personalize.
- Access to amenities like dining rooms, fitness centers, beauty salons, and community gardens.
- Organized social activities and programs.
- Key focus: Providing a hassle-free lifestyle where residents can pursue their interests in a community of their peers.
Programs in British Columbia
- Independent Living BC (ILBC): A subsidized program that provides housing with support services for seniors and people with disabilities.
- Choice in Supports for Independent Living (CSIL): A program that provides funding to eligible individuals with high physical care needs to purchase and manage their own home support services.