Consumer control in decision-making is intended to ensure that policies, procedures, services, and activities are responsive to the needs and respectful of the rights of the disability population. Consumer control over service objectives and methods. This aspect of independent living services places primary responsibility for identifying service needs, setting independent living goals and objectives and making decisions about service participation with the consumer who is receiving services. This means that the service provider role shifts from that of controlling and providing the services to one that consciously seeks to promote the independence and self-sufficiency of the consumer within the context of service participation selected by the consumer. Cross-disability emphasis .
Independent living emphasizes a responsiveness to the needs of all persons with disabilities.
At the national level, this separates the independent living program from programs that emphasize services to a particular disability group. Community based and community responsive . Independent living centers are designed to be responsive and accessible to the disability community in their service locale, and to involve the community significantly in setting program priorities. Peer role modeling . The emphasis on peer role modeling in independent living reflects a belief that people with disabilities can greatly benefit from the perspectives and support of others with disabilities who have successfully struggled to lead productive and meaningful lives in their communities.