Independent Living Services Instructor

Supporting People to Have Active and Fulfilled Days

The people who you support will do different things during their days. As an ILS Instructor you will need to be able to identify the strengths and skills of the people you support, and help them decide how to spend their days with these strengths and skills in mind.

You may support someone who does not have a set daily routine. In this situation, it is up to you as the ILS Instructor to ensure that the person has a fulfilling and active day. These activities can include taking a walk, attending social events with friends and family, or going out to eat.

NOT EVERYBODY LIKES SURPRISES...

Paul is independent and active in his community. He has an ILS Instructor to support him with driving from work, making and attending appointments, and doing other errands.

Paul has specific expectations about how and when activities should be done. His ILS Instructor, Brandy, is aware that when something happens out of the routine or does not match Paul’s expectations, he becomes concerned and anxious.

In order to reduce Paul’s anxiety, Brandy tries to break down the steps of what is going to happen. Ways that she does this include laying out what will happen step by step; asking Paul how he feels about the next event; asking for his permission before doing something; and giving him a reason when she does something new or different. It is also helpful when she lets Paul know about upcoming events or activities so that he is not surprised.

It is not possible to predict everything that will happen but you may be able to think ahead to help the person you support to step out of their routine and still feel comfortable. This can be a key part in helping people cope with new situations.

Supporting People with Challenging Behaviors
and Using Behavior Support Plans