Living independently is something that most people hope will always be an option, but it is not the reality for some individuals as they age or often for those who are disabled at any age. “Most adults, regardless of ability or age, want to live on their own terms, in their own homes, for as long as possible,” said Ozark Independent Living (OIL) Marketing and Independent Living Specialist Terry Hampton.
As a non-residential, not-for-profit organization, OIL serves as a disability resource center and has as its mission to empower people with disabilities to live as full and productive members of society through its Consumer Directed Services Department which can enable qualified Medicaid recipients to hire a friend or relative as an in-home attendant and its Independent Living Services Department serving anyone with a disability.
“When I speak to different groups doing presentations about OIL services, I talk about outside resources, but one thing I also like to mention is that each of us can really be our own best resource for independence,” Hampton said. “While sometimes things happen – such as health issues and accidents – which are beyond our control, there are other things we can control such as what we consume and how active we are. There are no guarantees, but maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking and doing simple exercises to stay fit while also working to maintain good balance, these are things to do to help ourselves remain independent as we age.”
The issue of balance is related to falling. Hampton notes that according to the Centers for Disease Control every second of every day in the United States an older adult falls, making falls the No. 1 cause of injuries and deaths from injury among older Americans.
“Falls can happen because of any number of things including undiagnosed health issues, side effects of medication or simply having too much clutter in your house, but the fact is being susceptible to repeated falls is one of the main reasons people end up in assisted living or skilled-nursing care situations,” Hampton said. “Not having the strength to get up and down from a seated position without assistance is another reason people lose their independence. We all need to do our best to maintain a healthy lifestyle by being as active as possible to be strong, both physically and mentally.”
OCTOBER IS DISABILITY AWARENESS MONTH
In addition to serving as a resource center, OIL has other mandated service goals, including advocacy. Pursuant to that, OIL celebrates Disability Awareness Month in October in conjunction with National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a nationwide campaign that celebrates the contributions of workers with disabilities and emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all Americans have access to the services and supports to enable them to work.
THIS YEAR’S OFFICIAL NDEAM THEME IS “AMERICA’S WORKFORCE: EMPOWERING ALL.”
“Many individuals with disabilities are capable and willing workers who want to work and contribute to their communities,” Hampton said. “Employers should be aware that individuals with disabilities have a lot to offer. Many of them merely need an opportunity to shine, to be empowered and given a chance to prove themselves. One of the reasons for observing NDEAM is to move from being simply aware to taking action. If you are someone who makes hiring decisions, why not investigate employing someone with a disability?
“There are often resources available to assist you.”
Employers interested in hiring workers with disabilities can call Hampton or Kathy Bauer at OIL, 417-256-8714, to obtain more information.
OIL is one of 22 centers for independent living in Missouri. It is headquartered in West Plains, but serves the seven counties of Douglas, Howell, Oregon, Ozark, Shannon, Texas and Wright. Information about potential resources, upcoming events and other disability-related news items are regularly shared on the “Ozark Independent Living” Facebook page. Sign up for a monthly email newsletter from OIL by contacting Hampton at thampton@ozarkcil.com.