Housing and independent living

Thought should be given to where the youth will live when the family is no longer able to provide care. Most youth (with or without a disability) experience an increasing need for independence as they develop and mature.

Youth with special needs require extra time and help developing skills for living away from home. As parents age, caregiving becomes more difficult. Ranges of residential living options are available in most counties. Choices are made based on individual needs and necessary levels of support (personal care, money management, meal planning, etc.). Levels of support can change over time so living arrangements can evolve.

Common options include:

• Community-based residential facility (24-hour supervision in a five- to eight-bed facility for individuals who are dependent on others for care).
• Adult family home (family home setting with supports).
• Supportive living (individual chooses where they want to live and needed supports are provided by outside agencies).