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Disabilities Into Adulthood

   Fast Facts: 

  • Adults that are disabled typically age out of school and certain programs at 21. 
  • Guardians should consider applying for Medicaid or Social Security. 
  • It’s important to evaluate your loved one’s living situation post-school. 
  • Alternative care options are available for your loved one. 
  • Vocational rehab can help your loved one find meaningful, gainful employment. 

Marie’s son, Malik, has an autism diagnosis.  He’ll be turning 18 next year and Marie’s researching what steps she’ll need to take to ensure his independence after he ages out of school and some of the services he received as a child. Care Guide Amanda has compiled a comprehensive list for her to consider.

Most adolescents with special needs age out of their current programs and school at 21 (some states, including New York, recently increased that age to 23, and other states could be following suit).    

It’s important to have conversations with a school social worker before that milestone so you can consider your options.  Here are some suggested actions you should take. 

Programs and Services After Childhood Ends

1.) Apply for Social Security and Medicaid benefits

  • Research benefits available in your home state.
  • Apply for the benefits for which your loved one is eligible.

2.) Consider obtaining guardianship

  • Guardianship ensures you or a designee can make important decisions for your loved one if they can’t.
  • Speaking with an attorney who specializes in guardianship cases can help make the best decisions for the family

3.) Evaluate the living situation

  • Determine whether your loved one will continue to live in the family home, or whether you’ll need to explore alternative living arrangements. 
  • Many alternative options exist outside of the family home, such as group homes, skilled nursing facilities, or government-subsidized housing. 

4.) Explore alternative care options

  • Adult day programs are available.
  • You can hire In-home care to watch over your loved one during the day.  

5.) Determine ability to engage in vocational rehab

  • Vocational rehab helps adults with special needs find meaningful, gainful employment.
  • Participants are paired with willing employers. 

Marie spoke to a social worker at Malik’s school about life after he “ages out” of his current program. She also consulted an attorney to start the process of giving guardianship over Malik to his older brother.  

If you have more questions about preparing for life after school for your loved one with special needs, you can reach out to a Care Guide for more assistance.