The Erroneous Link between Independence and Quality of Life

The Erroneous Link between Independence and Quality of Life

By Chantal Huinink

So many people of Western cultures derive meaning and value from their ability to be independent that the term “quality of life" is often assumed to be synonymous with independence. I suggest that this link is erroneous because in fact, meaning and value can be derived from much more than independence. Furthermore, situations in which personal goals are not achieved, if they are in fact personal goals and not goals imposed by others, can cause feelings of shame, discouragement and defeat.

 Some of the things I derive value from include encouraging others, motivational speaking and writing devotionals. Interestingly, none of these are directly related to activities of daily living or improvement of personal life skills. That is not to say that I don't drive some satisfaction from developing new skills or increasing my own independence. However, if I am not self-motivated to work towards such goals then the practice of related skills will not improve quality of life from a personal perspective. Furthermore, I am aware that there is a fine line between independence and efficiency. By this I mean that usually I will ask for assistance with activities of daily living which I might be able to accomplish independently or with less assistance if I put all my energy toward them. This in turn allows me to put more energy into the activities from which I derive value and satisfaction. It is much the same as anyone working with someone who excels in their areas of weakness so that they are able to focus on their strengths and thus improve productivity and morale overall.  For example,  I could work towards independence with regard to some of my personal care.  I could wash my face but it will take me a really long time.  I do not want to spend my day washing my face.  I would rather depend on someone else to do that task for me so that I can get to the activities that I feel  give my life quality, like attending my university courses or using my gifts to help others. 

 The crux of the matter is that one most often derives value and satisfaction from that which God has called them to do and gifted them for. For some, this may entail becoming as independent as physical and cognitive skills permit. For others, this may mean something very different. It is important to remember that doing God's will does not necessarily entail achieving what others are capable of but rather it is doing whatever we do for the glory of God.( 1 Corinthians 10:31)

 

One of the most significant challenges of supporting an individual with a disability may be to refrain from imposing our own notions about quality of life. Rather, it is more beneficial to support individuals to discern what God has called them to do. This, in turn will make more evident how their optimal quality of life may be achieved. Regardless of how we view one's quality of life it is important to remember John 10: 10 which says, "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly." (NRSV)