|
The
Capability and Independence Scale (CAIS)©
is both an assessment and a planning tool to evaluate and guide adolescents
and young adults with ASD and other developmental disabilities to become
more capable, more independent, and reach a life that is individualized and
personal. I discovered through my research that different kinds and
different levels of supports enable individuals to function at higher
capability levels. When these needed supports are provided the individual
grows at h/her own pace and life is positively impacted. My research
indicates that the level of a person’s adaptation and capability is not
completely determined by the diagnosis nor can it be predicted by the
severity of the disability. The scale is a protocol for professionals across
the medical, rehabilitation, and educational fields to evaluate an
individual’s personal growth with goal setting.
Eight Reasons the CAIS Is
Practical
in Evaluation and
Planning
(ASD & DD)
The
CAIS helps the rater:
1.
determine an individual’s current capability level in the context of
“with supports” and “independence” across 7 areas of living.
2.
pinpoint areas of need and ascertain the kind and level of supports
that can guide the individual into higher capability and independent
outcomes.
3.
evaluate levels of handling and managing set backs, challenges, loss,
accomplishments, new experiences, and opportunities.
4.
assist in identifying an individual’s strengths and gifts. Guiding
questions can 1) lead the rater to options that typically go unnoticed, and
2) highlight areas to channel talents and interests into leisure and other
living areas. Often the negative effects of a person’s disability
limitations lessen as improved outcomes are reached.
The
CAIS can:
5.
can act as a guide to develop individualized self management
approaches and “with supports,” a person’s self acceptance and self worth
may increase.
6.
can indicate ways to increase daily participation and adaptations to
new settings and with new people.
7.
can encourage problem solving through activities that focus on
personal strengths with necessary supports.
8.
with its findings and follow-through action planning can build
emotional stability in youth as they confront change and move through
challenging experiences and life’s phases.
|
