There are other dyspraxic adults who understand what you are going through. There are also many sources of information and support to help you now and in the future.

Join the Dyspraxia Foundation

A first step is to become a member of the Dyspraxia Foundation and join one of our local support groups. Talking to other dyspraxic people in the same position as you can really help. It can help get things into perspective. You’ll also find out about local services and sources of support. It can be a great way to build confidence, skills and social networks. If there isn’t a local group in your area, get in touch to find out how we can help you set one up.

We also run national conferences and events. At these, you can meet other dyspraxic people and learn about dyspraxia. Keep an eye on our events page and social media for news about upcoming events and activities.

Explore our website

Our website includes many hints and tips. They help you manage daily activities. They also build the skills and confidence you might need to reach your potential. If you have any further questions, please contact our helpline.

Simple ways to help with daily living

Simple, clear ideas often make a big difference to quality of life. For example:

Clothing:

• Lay out clothing layer by layer, underwear on top
• Avoid tight neck-holes
• Buy trousers with an elasticated waist – saves fiddling with buttons and zips
• Trousers pleated at the front make identifying ‘the right way round’ easier
• Shirt collars one size larger than fits are easier to fasten
• Baggy t-shirts and shorts are easy and comfy
• Use elasticated shoelaces that don't need to be tied

Eating:

• Use a flexible straw with a drink to prevent spilling
• Don’t fill cups too full
• Use a damp towel under plates to stop them moving
• Sit down to eat where possible

Getting organised:

• Keep to a daily routine
• Post-It® pads stuck at eye level on doors are useful reminders
• Transparent purses and pencil cases let you see the contents easily
• Keep keys and purses on a long chain which clips to clothing
• Break down large tasks into smaller components to make them more manageable
• Use diaries, calendars, and post-it® notes to plan your day/week/month. Prioritise things you have to do first. Finish one task before you start another. Mind maps and flow charts can also be of use

Members of the Dyspraxia Foundation share their tips for reducing the impact of dyspraxia on daily life. They do this through local groups and the Foundation’s newsletter.

You can find recommended products for dyspraxia on our website. They may help with everyday living.

We also have books about dyspraxia which you may find helpful.

Some top tips and thoughts to reflect on

• A diagnosis can help you face your challenges. It can help you see them clearly and feel better about yourself.
• Think positively and keep your sense of humour.
• Many people with dyspraxia are very creative, determined, persistent and intelligent.
• Try assertiveness and self-development classes or join a self-help or support group.
• Try to carry out some kind of relaxation exercise every day such as yoga or the Alexander Technique.
• Try going to the fitness gym to improve your muscle strength and coordination.
• Do any sport that might improve your coordination and manual dexterity. Examples include computer games, bowling, swimming, rock climbing, walking, and aqua aerobics. Find something that you really enjoy doing.
• Use helpful tools to help you do your daily tasks. For example, electric toothbrushes, shavers, kettle-tippers, special tin openers, and potato peelers. Also, word processors with spell checks and lap-top computers. We have lots of recommended products on our website.
• If you are learning a new sequence of actions, see that you get clear, precise instructions. Use a video if this helps.

EV Driving Advice

Here's some great advice from Autotrader. It's about driving an electric vehicle (EV) with a disability.

Useful contact numbers and addresses:

Citizens Advice Bureau
Google to find your local office. It provides an advocacy service for the disabled and disadvantaged. Or, it can connect you with your local agency. Your local library can also help.

Benefit Enquiry Line
For more information about benefits, especially, Incapacity Benefit and Disability Living Allowance. Those with moderate or severe dyspraxia may be entitled to them.
Call: Freephone: 0800 88 2200

Disability Services Team
(Formerly PACT – Placement Assessment and Counselling Team). For more details, ask at your local Job Centre. They will investigate and note any problems you might have in seeking work or are having in work.

SKILL (National Bureau for Students with Disabilities)
3rd Floor, Chapter House, 18-20 Crucifix Lane, London SE1 3JW. They give advice on all parts of post-16 education, training, and work. It is for students with disabilities.
Call: Freephone: 0800 3285050

Disability Living Foundation
For advice and information on equipment to help in your everyday life. They range from jar and tin openers to electric toothbrushes. There are branches all over the country.
Call: Helpline: 0870 6039177

Disability Rights UK
Ground Floor, CAN Mezzanine, 49-51 East Rd, London N1 6AH. They publish information on education and employment for disabled people.
Call: 020 7250 8181
Visit Disability Rights UK

The Disability Law Service
39-45 Cavell Street, London E1 2BP. Advice on education, benefits, employment and community care.
Other groups include Mind and Mencap. They help people with mental and learning problems. See your local directory for their phone number.
Call: 0207 791 3131