Explore information about accessing services during the transition to adulthood and throughout adulthood.
Transition to Adulthood & Adulthood
Transition is considered to be the period between the ages of 14 and 21 but many adults with developmental disabilities continue to need access to services and supports throughout adulthood. During this time, someone with developmental disabilities who is receiving services confers with their team to set goals and make plans for the services and supports that they believe will help them achieve their goals as they enter adulthood. Those same considerations carry over into planning during adulthood in areas such as work, housing, secondary education, and relationships.
A man working in a greenhouse.
Transition
Young people with developmental disabilities can get a head start on preparing for adulthood by engaging in transition planning through their school. Designing a plan based on a young persons' idea of what they want their adult life to look like and anticipates supports that may be needed can set a young person up for success as they grow into this next phase of life.
Service Planning in Adulthood
Many people with developmental disabilities enter the service system when they are children. However, those who didn't may find that as they enter adulthood, different kinds of assistance and support can help them achieve their goals. Services funded through state and federal government agencies are available for those who qualify. Find out more about Accessing Support Services in Adulthood.
Adult Support Services
Our lives are interdependent, and as adults with and without developmental disabilities we succeed with help and support from all around us. A parent may continue to provide housing to their adult son or daughter, a friend may give that person a ride to work, or community members may see the person at their local coffee shop each morning to chat and inquire about their wellbeing. We may rely on smartphones to store our calendars or reminders to keep us on task.
We may also benefit from the support of paid services, such as food stamps, housing subsidies, help finding or keeping a job, or a person who can help us develop strategies for success at home, work, or in our communities. There are many options for paid supports, which are often needed to supplement the support we get from neighbors, friends and family.
Learn more about training opportunities related to adolescents and adults with disabilities.
View or listen to free webinars and podcasts for parents, family members, caregivers, or professionals on topics pertaining to transition to adulthood & adulthood.
