A 2022 study from the Journal of Intellectual Disability Research found that adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who participate in social and recreational activities at least once a week report significantly higher life satisfaction and lower rates of anxiety and depression. For adults with IDD, independence is not defined solely by physical autonomy, but also by the freedom to build relationships, make choices, and engage meaningfully in their communities. Social connections are more than just friendly encounters- they are foundational to personal growth, emotional resilience, and self-determination.
At Active Day, promoting independence through social inclusion is at the heart of our mission. Our day programs and wraparound services are designed to support adults with IDD in living vibrant, connected, and empowered lives, every single day.
Understanding the Link Between Socialization and Independence
What is Social Connection in the Context of IDD?
For adults with IDD, social connection includes forming friendships, engaging in group activities, participating in community events, and developing communication skills that foster two-way relationships. It’s about being part of something bigger- a group, a team, a community.
The Psychological and Developmental Benefits:
Regular social interaction builds confidence, enhances communication skills, and improves emotional well-being. It combats isolation and reinforces a sense of belonging. According to the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, social engagement supports brain development and helps individuals adapt more effectively to new environments.
The Scientific Consensus:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) both underscore the importance of social interaction as a protective factor against loneliness and mental decline, particularly for those with cognitive challenges.
How Active Day Creates Opportunities for Meaningful Social Engagement
Active Day provides structured activities through an inclusive calendar of programs designed to bring members together in joyful, safe, and engaging ways. These include:
- Group games that build cooperation and healthy competition
- Community outings to local parks, stores, or cultural events
- Creative arts and crafts that encourage self-expression
- Holiday celebrations and themed parties that foster excitement and camaraderie
All activities are designed with varying levels of ability in mind, ensuring that every member- regardless of physical, cognitive, or emotional needs- can participate comfortably and meaningfully.
A typical day at Active Day is rich with social touchpoints. From morning greetings and group meals to shared activities and relaxation breaks, members are surrounded by caring peers and staff. Trained caregivers create a structured environment with familiar routines and opportunities for peer interaction and shared responsibilities.
Each member’s social journey is supported through person-centered planning. We tailor group experiences to reflect individual preferences, from music tastes and hobbies to favorite conversation topics. This fosters authentic engagement and long-term relationships.
Real-Life Impact: Building Confidence Through Connection
Success Stories:
One parent shared: “Before joining Active Day, my son rarely left the house. Now, he’s excited for Tuesdays because that’s game day. He even leads the trivia round!” Stories like these, gathered from families across our network, show the transformative power of community.
Another family noted: “Active Day gave my daughter her first real best friend. They met during a painting class and haven’t stopped talking since.”
Post-Graduation Transition Support:
Transitioning out of the school system can be daunting. Active Day fills that gap, offering adults with IDD a consistent environment to thrive socially and emotionally. Our programs are intentionally designed to help young adults build the soft skills they need to move forward with confidence.
Active Day’s Holistic Approach to Fostering Independence
Active Day’s unique “up and top” model integrates in-home care with day center services. For example, a home caregiver may help a member get ready in the morning, after which a driver takes them to their center-based program. After a day of enriching activities, they return home with continued support- a full-circle approach to daily independence.
Social interaction is woven into every element of our programming, from collaborative projects and peer mentoring to job-readiness workshops. We help members practice communication, teamwork, and leadership- essential tools for thriving both at Active Day and beyond.
We work hand-in-hand with families. From providing regular progress updates to offering respite care, Active Day supports the whole caregiving ecosystem. Our team understands the emotional weight families carry and is committed to being a trusted partner at every step.
Why Social Inclusion Must Be Intentional
Social inclusion isn’t just about participation, it’s about being welcomed, valued, and heard. The UN’s Disability-Inclusive Language Guidelines highlight the shift from “integration” (where individuals are fit into pre-existing systems) to true “inclusion,” where systems adapt to embrace everyone.
Adults with IDD face systemic barriers, from transportation challenges to social stigmas. Active Day actively works to dismantle these, through advocacy, education, and by modeling inclusive practices in every location.
The Active Day Difference
At Active Day, we believe that every person deserves a full, connected, and independent life. Social connection is a lifeline for all of us, especially those with IDD. Through our inclusive programs, personalized care, and supportive community, we are creating spaces where adults with IDD don’t just participate- they thrive.
Interested in learning more or scheduling a tour? Contact your local Active Day center to experience the power of connection firsthand.
