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Real members of MyAutismTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Adult child w/ Autism at 24 years old -Services unsteady I want to know what my options are

A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
New York, NY

What have or doing for your adult child with Autism with no steady services or income?

January 7
 · 
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A MyAutismTeam Member

https://nycautismcommunity.org/?gad_source=1&am...

https://www.autisticadultsnyc.org/

https://www.qsac.com/programs/services-for-adults/

Finding Support and Accommodations
If you or a loved one is facing a lack of steady services, several avenues may provide assistance:
Advocacy Organizations: Groups like the Autism Society and Autism Speaks offer resources, support groups, and advocacy at national and local levels.
Government Services:
Vocational Rehabilitation can help individuals find or keep jobs and may offer support in the workplace.
Medicaid Waivers and state-specific programs may provide in-home or community-based support, even for adults (eligibility varies by state).
The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers disability benefits if autism symptoms prevent a person from working.
Workplace Accommodations: Employers can provide accommodations under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), such as a quieter workspace, flexible schedule, job coaching, or clear instructions, which can help maintain steady employment.
Community Resources: Local community centers, libraries, and other organizations sometimes offer sensory-friendly events or specific support groups. Calling ahead can help you find quiet times or specific programs

NYC Autism Community – You Are Not Alone
NYC Autism Community – You Are Not Alone
https://nycautismcommunity.org/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23093674013&gbraid=0AAAAA9g49eAki4i4kIKVNq59EsXRSdGVe&gclid=Cj0KCQiApfjKBhC0ARIsAMiR_ItJ_GQbpoMSuHjv7K1pWaia_igDYBL6c08pL9v6-tgT3lZtkdoi_44aAus9EALw_wcB
Services for Adults | QSAC
Services for Adults | QSAC
https://www.qsac.com/programs/services-for-adults/
Autistic Adults NYC
Autistic Adults NYC
https://www.autisticadultsnyc.org/
January 7
MyAutismTeam

What options are available for supporting an adult child with autism who lacks steady services or income?

Finding consistent services for adults with autism can be incredibly frustrating. Many parents face this same challenge, especially when services become limited or unavailable in their area.

Here are some steps you Show Full Answer

What options are available for supporting an adult child with autism who lacks steady services or income?

Finding consistent services for adults with autism can be incredibly frustrating. Many parents face this same challenge, especially when services become limited or unavailable in their area.

Here are some steps you can take:

Financial Planning and Protection:
- Set up a Special Needs Trust to protect government benefits like SSI and Medicaid. This is crucial even if you don't consider yourself wealthy - if you make over $50,000, own a home, or have assets your child might inherit, this protects their eligibility for services
- Create a life care plan that outlines your child's future care needs
- Designate a legal guardian if you haven't already

Finding Services and Support:
- Connect with your local Easter Seals chapter, which may offer respite care and other family support services
- Network through social media and online communities to find programs that fit your child's needs
- Reach out to hospitals and medical practices for resources beyond appointments - many offer patient liaisons, nurse navigators, and referrals to other services

Building Independence:
- Consider recreational activities that promote independence while building skills
- Focus on helping your adult child develop day-to-day living skills at their own pace

A MyAutismTeam member shared: "Every time I need something new for my daughter, or services like ABA or speech therapy its unavailable in my area or very far away."

You're not alone in this struggle, and connecting with other parents can help you discover local resources and programs.

January 7
A MyAutismTeam Member

The Vocational Rehab is what my son receives now .It's been unsteady so that's why we need to look at other options.Thanks for the info.

January 8
A MyAutismTeam Member

I guess a couple of questions to ask are how steady is the income and what services are required. Influencing the answer to the second would be what can this young adult be reasonably expected to do for himself, what is he good at, what is he interested in, and how those things can best be used to his advantage. I am quite certain that very few 24 year olds want permanent dependency, disabled or not; making it unlikely that your child is one of them.

January 7

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