Planning for an Adult Child with Disabilities: Future Care, Housing & Support Options
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How Do I Plan for My Adult Child with Disabilities?
Planning for an adult child with disabilities involves four key steps:
- Exploring Medicaid waivers for in-home care and support services.
- Choosing a housing option, whether in-home support, shared living, an independent setup, a group home or other options.
- Setting up financial protections, such as a special needs trust.
- Hiring and managing caregivers for long-term stability.
For parents and siblings of adults with disabilities, planning for the future can feel overwhelming.
Whether it's housing, Medicaid waivers, caregiver support, or long-term financial security, making the right choices requires clear guidance and a roadmap.
Step 1: Understanding Long-Term Care Options
Every family must decide how to structure care and independence for their adult child. Key questions to consider:
Should we apply for Medicaid waiver services or continue private pay support?
Is in-home care the best fit, or should we explore independent living options?
How do we ensure financial security with a special needs trust?
Step 2: Exploring Medicaid & Waiver Services
Many families of older adults with disabilites have never used government-funded disability services, but Medicaid waivers provide key benefits for the future including:
✅ Personal Care Services – Help with daily living activities
✅ Respite Care – Giving family caregivers a break
✅ In-Home Support – Hiring caregivers through Medicaid
✅ Employment & Day Programs – Support for independent work and activities
If a Medicaid waiver isn't currently an option, there are many other programs and services that can support your loved one.
Step 3: Choosing Housing & In-Home Care Options
Many families consider group homes, but other living arrangements may provide more autonomy and personalized support:
- Building a Care Team – If your loved one rents or owns their home, or lives with you, you can build a care team to support them at home instead of a group home.
- Shared Living Arrangements – You can match people with disabilities for co-housing, or offering free or reduced rent to a caregiver in exchange for support.
- Supported Apartments – Renting or purchasing an accessible apartment with part-time paid caregiver support, and part time unpaid caregiver support.
Step 4: Financial & Legal Planning
A special needs trust ensures long-term financial security while protecting eligibility for government benefits. Families should also explore:
Supported Decision-Making & Guardianship – Choosing the right level of support
Special Needs Trusts – Protects assets while maintaining eligibility for Medicaid and SSI.
Social Security Disability (SSDI) & Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – Maximizing benefits
ABLE Accounts – Tax-free savings accounts for disability-related expenses
Get Expert Guidance on Options for Your Child's Future
Navigating care, housing, and financial decisions doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
With the right support, families can create a personalized plan that ensures a secure, fulfilling future for their loved one.