How To Plan for Adulthood When Your Disabled Child Turns 18
Turning 18 is a big deal for any teenager. It’s a milestone that brings about legal and social changes…a right of passage to the next stage of life.
But it can come with extra challenges and considerations if your child has a disability.
Suddenly, they're legally an adult, which brings changes in legal status, healthcare management, and financial planning.
It can be overwhelming for anyone especially if they have special needs.
How can you help make this transition as smooth as possible? By ensuring they have the support they need put in place.
Creating a Support Plan for Your Disabled Child’s Transition to Adulthood
Here are some key steps and resources that can help you create a solid support plan, making this transition into adulthood as smooth as possible for your child.
1. Understand Legal Changes
Once your child turns 18, they’re considered an adult in the eyes of the law.
This legal change means your child will be responsible for making their own decisions. You no longer have the legal authority to make decisions on their behalf unless you have legal safeguards in place.
Consider the following:
Guardianship: If your child cannot make decisions independently, you might need to establish legal guardianship. This process can be lengthy and requires court approval.
You would need to file a petition and attend a court hearing. If you choose this route, start early.
Power of Attorney: If your child can make some decisions but needs help with others, a power of attorney might be a suitable option.
This is less restrictive than guardianship and can be tailored to specific needs, like managing finances or medical decisions.
2. Review and Update Medical Plans
Medical care is another critical area to focus on. Once your child becomes an adult, you might encounter new challenges related to medical decision-making and insurance.
Make sure their health insurance covers this transition. If they qualify for Medicaid, reapply before they turn 18 to avoid any lapse in coverage.
In addition to the above, you will need to obtain and verify the following:
HIPAA Authorization: Without a signed HIPAA authorization form, doctors may not discuss your adult child's medical information with you. Make sure you have this in place.
Health Insurance: Verify that your child's health coverage continues after they turn 18. Some plans may require re-enrollment or offer different benefits for adults.
3. Evaluate Educational and Vocational Plans
Education and employment opportunities can also change significantly once your child reaches adulthood. It's essential to review and update their educational plans:
IEP Transition Plan: If your child has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), ensure it includes a transition plan that outlines steps for moving from school to adult life.
This plan should cover further education, job training, and independent living skills. Schools often offer resources to help with this, so don't hesitate to ask.
Vocational Rehabilitation Services: Many states offer vocational rehabilitation services to help disabled individuals find employment.
They offer various programs tailored to individual needs, from job training to placement services.
Check what services are available and how your child can take advantage of them.
Planning for adulthood when your disabled child turns 18 involves careful planning and support.
By understanding the changes ahead and putting a solid support plan in place, you can help ensure a smoother, more manageable transition into this new stage of life.
Need help getting started? Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you and your family plan for the future!
DISCLAIMER: The content contained herein is for general informational purposes only. These materials do not constitute legal or other professional advice. We do not accept any responsibility for any loss that may arise from reliance on this information. No reader should act or refrain from acting based on information contained in this article without seeking advice of counsel.