Redefining Independence: Why “Doing It Alone” Isn’t the Only Goal

In disability support, “independence” is often seen as the ultimate aim. But when we dig a little deeper, it’s clear that independence isn’t always about doing everything alone. In fact, that idea can sometimes limit people more than it helps. True independence means something much more meaningful: being able to make choices, have control over your life, and participate fully in your community, with the right support in place.

What Does Independence Really Mean?

For many people with disability, independence might involve using mobility aids, accessing support workers, or relying on assistive technology. These supports do not reduce independence — they often make it possible. The ability to direct your own support, make decisions about how your day looks, or choose who you spend time with are all forms of independence.

The idea that “doing it alone” is the only version of independence is not just outdated. It can also be harmful. It can lead to situations where people are pushed to stop receiving support before they are ready or are made to feel like asking for help is a failure.

Interdependence: A More Human Model

No one is truly independent all the time. Everyone relies on other people in some way — for connection, for care, for community. The concept of interdependence acknowledges that support is a natural part of life. For people with disability, interdependence allows space for both autonomy and support to exist together.

Building routines, setting goals, managing health, and staying socially connected often require a team. Whether it’s family, friends, allied health professionals or support workers, having the right people around can help someone thrive, not just survive.

A Supportive Role for Support Workers

Support workers play a key role in promoting independence — not by stepping away, but by walking alongside. Encouraging choice-making, involving clients in planning their own care, and adapting tasks to someone’s strengths are all ways to support growth without pressure.

Sometimes this might mean providing step-by-step help with daily activities. Other times, it could mean helping someone advocate for themselves or trial a new skill in a safe environment. The goal is not to replace support with isolation, but to make support feel like empowerment.

Language Matters

The way we talk about independence also needs care. Praising someone only when they do something “without help” can send the wrong message. It can imply that needing support is a shortcoming. Instead, we can celebrate self-direction, resilience, decision-making and growth — even when those things happen with support in place.

Rethinking Success

Success looks different for everyone. For one person, independence might mean cooking a full meal. For someone else, it might be choosing what to eat and having help to prepare it. Neither goal is more valuable than the other. What matters is that the person is in control of how they live and what they want to work towards.

By shifting our focus away from “doing it alone” and towards enabling meaningful choice, connection and control, we can redefine what it means to live independently — in a way that truly respects each person’s rights, dignity and goals.