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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 day programs for autistic adults ages 22 and up

A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Sunnyvale, CA

I’m researching possible places for my son. I want to know what is a good day program. I lost the list his service coordinator sent me last year. I can reach out to her again, but I would like to know if anyone has any valuable information. I live in the Silicon Valley so I’m interested in Sunnyvale, Mountain View, Santa Clara or Cupertino. Thank you in advance.

January 15
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A MyAutismTeam Member

Contact the Golden Gate Regional Center (GGRC): This is your best first step for funded services.

https://beaminghealth.com/adult-day-programs/mo...

ServiceSource, Easterseals, Regional Centers (e.g., Golden Gate, San Andreas), or specialized non-profits like Next Door Solutions/Pathways to Independence & Autism Speaks CA; check with San Mateo County Adult & Aging Services for funded options and utilize Disability Rights California for advocacy, as programs vary by funding and focus (life skills vs. vocational).

ServiceSource/Pathways to Independence (San Mateo County): Offers adult day programs (often called "Adult Day Health Care" or "Community Day Services") for individuals with developmental disabilities, including autism, focusing on community integration and skills. Pathways to Independence
Easterseals Bay Area: Provides adult services, including day programs, for individuals with disabilities. Easterseals Bay Area
Regional Centers (Golden Gate/San Andreas): These are crucial entry points for services; contact the one covering your area (likely Golden Gate for Mountain View/Santa Clara County) for referrals to funded adult day programs. Golden Gate Regional Center
Autism Speaks California & Disability Rights California: Good resources for finding providers, understanding rights, and getting connected to state-level support. Autism Speaks California

10 BEST Adult Day Programs in Mountain View
10 BEST Adult Day Programs in Mountain View
https://beaminghealth.com/adult-day-programs/mountain-view-94043/valley-health-valueoptions-beacon-health-strategies
January 16
MyAutismTeam

What should you look for in a good adult day program for your autistic son?

Finding the right day program for your son is an important decision. While the search results don't include specific program recommendations for the Silicon Valley area, they do offer guidance on what makes supportive environments work well.

A Show Full Answer

What should you look for in a good adult day program for your autistic son?

Finding the right day program for your son is an important decision. While the search results don't include specific program recommendations for the Silicon Valley area, they do offer guidance on what makes supportive environments work well.

A good day program should focus on helping your son develop skills, work on challenges, and provide structured activities that match his interests and needs. Many autistic adults benefit from programs that include:

- Predictable routines and visual schedules
- Opportunities to work on social skills in a supportive environment
- Activities that align with personal interests (like music, art, or physical activities)
- Sensory supports when needed (quiet spaces, fidget tools, etc.)
- Staff trained in understanding autism and communication needs

Some programs incorporate extra-curricular activities like music, art therapy, or physical activities that can be both enjoyable and beneficial. A MyAutismTeam member shared how their son thrives with activities like taekwondo, which works on listening and following directions in a fun environment.

Reaching back out to your service coordinator is definitely a good idea - they'll have the most current list of programs in your area. You might also consider connecting with other parents in the Silicon Valley area on MyAutismTeam who may have firsthand experience with local programs and can share what's worked for their adult children.

January 15

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