Public perception in Vietnam is that persons with disabilities (PWDs) should be taken care of by their families, social organizations, and the government. As a result, physical and social environments do not cater to PWD accessibility, which results in a majority of PWDs, especially those with severe and extremely severe disabilities, unable to live independently. To address this, from June 19-21, USAID’s Raising Voices, Creating Opportunities project, implemented by the Action to the Community Development Center (ACDC), carried out home-based training on independent living skills in Quang Nam province. Fifty persons with severe and extremely severe disabilities in Duy Xuyen, Dai Loc, and Dien Ban districts were evaluated on their basic daily living activities, housing, attitudes and knowledge of independent living, and their needs. PWDs and their family members or caregivers were advised on basic rehabilitation activities, skills to carry out daily activities, and the addition of low-cost or home-made assistive devices. They were also guided on how to renovate their homes to ensure accessibility, convenience, and safety for PWDs in their daily activities. PWDs and their family members/caregivers also participated in peer counseling sessions to share experiences and support each other to enhance their independent living skills.

So What? By improving the awareness, attitudes, and skills on independent living, USAID is helping persons with severe disabilities better integrate themselves into society.