Is Your Adult Child Ready for More Independence?
A Free Independent Living Readiness Checklist for Families of Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Planning for your adult child's future can bring a lot of questions.
Are they ready for more independence? What skills should they be developing? What kind of support will they need? And how do you know when it's time to explore residential living?
The good news is that readiness isn't about having every skill mastered or every answer figured out.
At Daymark Living, we believe independence is a journey, and every journey looks a little different.
This free checklist is designed to help families recognize strengths, identify areas for growth, and begin meaningful conversations about the future.
No forms. No sign-ups. Just a helpful resource to get the conversation started.
Explore Your Family's Readiness Checklist
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Participates in personal hygiene and grooming routines
Helps with laundry, cleaning, or organizing personal belongings
Participates in meal preparation or grocery shopping
Makes everyday choices about clothing, meals, and activities
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Expresses interest in friendships and social activities
Communicates preferences, feelings, and needs
Practices respecting boundaries and shared spaces
Can manage changes in routine with appropriate support
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Knows how to ask for help when needed
Understands basic personal and community safety practices
Participates in health routines with appropriate assistance
Has identified support needs for medication, mobility, or personal care
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Practices making purchases or basic money decisions
Has discussed potential residential living costs
Has reviewed benefits and available funding resources
Has considered long-term financial and support planning
What If My Loved One Isn't Ready Yet?
That's okay. There is no single timeline for greater independence.
Some adults may be ready to explore residential living shortly after high school. Others may benefit from additional time developing daily living skills, participating in community activities, or becoming more comfortable spending time away from home.
The purpose of this checklist isn't to determine whether someone passes or fails. It's to help identify what is working well, where additional support may be helpful, and what steps your family might explore next.
Remember: Independence doesn't mean doing everything alone. It means having opportunities to make choices, develop skills, build relationships, and participate in everyday life with the support that's right for each person.
You Don't Have to Have Everything Figured Out
Whether your family is planning for the next year or the next decade, starting the conversation is an important first step.
At Daymark Living, we're happy to answer questions, share what life in our community looks like, and help you explore opportunities that may be right for your loved one.
Let's Explore What's Possible Together.
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Has had opportunities to express where and how they want to live
Has explored different types of residential support
Has considered living with peers and sharing common spaces
Has identified routines and accommodations that are important
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Has interests, hobbies, or goals they enjoy pursuing
Participates in classes, volunteer opportunities, or community activities
Has opportunities to try new experiences
Has discussed what a meaningful daily routine might look like
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Family members have discussed future living arrangements
Important caregivers and supporters understand the person's preferences
The family has considered how relationships and visits may change
There is a plan for decision-making and support when needed
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Identify two strengths to continue encouraging
Choose one or two skills to practice over the next few months
Include your loved one in a conversation about their future
Explore day programs, short stays, or residential living options
