Strong compensatory skills

"Individuals with learning disabilities often compensate for literacy shortfalls by developing strong skills in other areas. These skills may include proficiency in the use of computers or other focused abilities in limited areas."⁵¹ Often compensatory skills are not taught; adults have had to learn through trial and error. This creative learning is an individualized way to accomplish tasks and compensate for weaknesses. For example, a person with an auditory processing disability may find recording information from a phone call to be quite challenging. Instead of having to continually ask the caller to repeat information, the person may find saying "I know this message is important, so I want to make sure I get the information correct" will result in the caller being patient when repeating the information.

Empathy

Although adults' experiences with learning disabilities are unique, many can share a common feeling of frustration and sense of failure at one time or another. As a result, they can relate to other adults' difficulties and are able to offer support.⁵²

Persistence

Self-determination is often cited as the key to success for persons with learning disabilities. By understanding and accepting their disabilities, they can make a conscious decision to take charge of their lives and make individualized adaptations to succeed. "Persistence is a hallmark of many adults with learning disabilities, who have refused to give up despite their difficulties and frustrations. If channeled appropriately, this experience can contribute to an active sense of dedication and purpose."⁵³ Often this persistence is preserved through a good support network. Unfortunately many adults that take part in LBS programs have not developed or had access to a good support network and thus their lack of persistence is often the first difficulty to interfere with their learning.