5 Powerful Ways We Can Support Loved Ones with IDD

When someone has an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD), the love and support of their family, friends, and advocates can make a world of difference. From early childhood through adulthood, we can play a vital role in shaping a person’s confidence, independence, and sense of belonging. While each journey is unique, there are a few essential things we can do to support and empower our loved ones with IDD. Whether they are in school, entering adulthood, or transitioning into the workforce, these five practices can strengthen our support and help them thrive.

1. Encourage Self-Advocacy

One of the most powerful tools you can give your loved one is a voice. Encouraging self-advocacy means helping them understand their rights, express their preferences, and make their own choices. You can involve them in IEP meetings, let them speak during doctor appointments, and help them practice decision-making at home.

Why it matters: Self-advocacy builds self-confidence, independence, and prepares individuals with IDD to be active participants in their own lives.

2. Focus on Strengths, Not Just Challenges

Every individual has unique strengths, talents, and interests. Help your loved one discover what they enjoy and what they’re good at - then support them in developing those areas. This could be through hobbies, internships, community classes, or volunteer work.

Why it matters: Strength-based approaches improve motivation, self-esteem, and often lead to greater success in school, employment, and social life.

3. Promote Community Inclusion

Isolation is a major challenge for many individuals with disabilities. We can help by encouraging and supporting involvement in the community, whether it’s through sports, arts programs, church groups, volunteer work, or social clubs. These connections help build social skills and expand their support network.

Why it matters: Community engagement fosters a sense of belonging and increases access to real-world opportunities.

4. Plan for the Future Early

It’s never too early to begin thinking about the future. Families can work on transition planning during high school, look into supported decision-making options, open ABLE accounts, explore supported employment, or connect with services that offer post-graduation support. Understanding government benefits (like SSI or Medicaid waivers) is also key.

Why it matters: Early planning reduces stress and sets a strong foundation for adulthood.

5. Be Their Cheerleader, and Their Network

While it’s important to encourage independence, ongoing advocacy and support are still needed. We can connect our loved ones to job coaches, therapists, inclusive employers, or housing resources. Be there to lift them up, stand by them when they face barriers, and celebrate their wins, big and small.

Why it matters: A strong, supportive network increases access to opportunities and helps individuals with IDD feel valued and supported.

Everyone's journey is different, but the commitment to helping a loved one with IDD grow, thrive, and lead a meaningful life is universal. By promoting self-advocacy, building on strengths, planning ahead, and staying connected, we can be a strong source of empowerment. Let’s continue building a world that recognizes ability, promotes inclusion, and supports the unique potential of every person.