Adulting Life Skills Resources

Transition to Adult Healthcare

lorna — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 14:57:31 +0000

Adulting Life Skills Resources

Transition to Adult Healthcare

The move from pediatric to adult healthcare is a significant milestone for teenagers. However, when your child has intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), it becomes even more crucial to guarantee that they receive proper medical care and understand their health needs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss the steps and considerations for parents to help their teens and adults with IDD transition to adult healthcare providers smoothly.

Understanding the Importance of a Smooth Transition
The transition from pediatric to adult healthcare is a pivotal step that fosters independence and self-advocacy in managing health for individuals with IDD. It’s essential to be aware of the healthcare disparities that they may face and to encourage them to become self-advocates in managing their health effectively.

Preparing for the Transition
Early planning is key; transition preparation should commence during the early teen years. Consult with your child’s pediatric healthcare providers for insights and advice for the transition. Create a comprehensive medical summary, including your child’s medical history and any relevant health information.

Choosing an Adult Healthcare Provider
Select adult healthcare providers with experience working with individuals with IDD or specializing in developmental disabilities. Schedule meet-and-greet appointments with potential providers to assess compatibility and establish open lines of communication with the chosen provider.

Transitioning to Adult Healthcare
The transition should be gradual. Start by introducing your child to the new healthcare provider, attending appointments together, and gradually allowing them to take more responsibility. Teach your child about the purpose of healthcare appointments and practice effective communication skills.

Healthcare Resources and Support
Investigate available healthcare resources and support groups. Consider working with care coordination services to ensure your child receives comprehensive and well-coordinated care. Explore telehealth services as an option, which can be more comfortable for some individuals with IDD.

Understanding Medications and Treatments
Educate your child about the importance of adhering to medication schedules and understanding potential side effects. Discuss any treatment plans or therapies they receive, ensuring they understand their purpose and function.

Empowering Self-Advocacy
Empower your child to participate in healthcare decisions and express their preferences. Teach them effective communication with healthcare providers, including asking questions and seeking clarification when needed.

Managing Anxiety and Fear
Acknowledge your child’s fears and uncertainties about the transition and address them with empathy. Share relaxation techniques and strategies to manage anxiety, and use visual supports like social stories or visible schedules to prepare for healthcare appointments.

Emergency Preparedness
Ensure your child can access emergency healthcare services and maintain a list of emergency contacts. Provide healthcare providers with an emergency information card that outlines your child’s medical history, allergies, and contacts. Inquire about local special needs registries that can be invaluable during emergencies.

Regular Health Check-Ups
Stress the importance of regular health check-ups and preventive care to maintain your child’s health. Don’t overlook dental and vision care; schedule regular check-ups for these services.

Communication with Healthcare Providers
Consider keeping a communication notebook to track your child’s health concerns, questions, and medications. Please encourage your child to maintain a healthcare journal to discuss with their healthcare provider and utilize appointment reminder tools to prevent missed appointments.

Mental Health and Well-Being
Acknowledge the significance of mental health and be vigilant for signs of anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns. Explore psychiatric services or therapy options if your child requires mental health support.

Coping with Change
Help your child understand that change is a part of life and that healthcare transitions are one aspect of growing up. Ensure your child knows they have a support system in place, including family, friends, and healthcare providers. Always encourage them to focus on the positive aspects of the transition and develop resilience in the face of change.

Transitioning to adult healthcare for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is crucial to fostering independence and self-advocacy. Planning early, choosing the right healthcare provider, and empowering your child to actively participate in their healthcare can ensure a smooth and successful transition. Open communication, understanding, and support are key to helping your teen or adult with IDD manage their health needs and confidently navigate the healthcare system.

The post Transition to Adult Healthcare first appeared on Adulting Life Skills Resources and is written by lorna.

Life Plan for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities

lorna — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 16:33:45 +0000

Adulting Life Skills Resources

Life Plan for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities

Living a fulfilling life is something we all desire, regardless of our abilities or challenges. For adults with intellectual disabilities, having a well-thought-out life plan can make a world of difference in their lives. It’s like having a roadmap that helps them reach their goals and dreams. Let’s explore why creating a life plan is so valuable for adults with intellectual disabilities.

Clarity and Direction
Imagine going on a journey without knowing where you’re headed. It can be confusing and frustrating. A life plan provides clarity and direction. It helps adults with intellectual disabilities understand what they want in life and how to get there. Whether it’s finding a job, living independently, or pursuing hobbies, a life plan sets the course.

Personalized Support
Every person is unique, and a life plan is tailored to the individual’s specific needs, interests, and abilities. It’s like having a personalized guide. For example, if someone loves painting, their plan might include art classes or opportunities to display their artwork. Personalized support helps them thrive.

Building Skills
A life plan is not just about setting goals; it’s also about developing the skills needed to achieve those goals. If someone’s dream is to work in a bakery, their plan might include baking and customer service training. These skills help them reach their goal and boost their self-confidence.

Independence and Self-Advocacy
Independence is a big part of adulthood. With a life plan, adults with intellectual disabilities learn to make choices, express their needs, and advocate for themselves. It’s like learning to steer their own ship. This independence fosters a sense of empowerment and pride.

Inclusion and Social Connections
Feeling part of a community is essential for everyone. A life plan can include activities and opportunities for social interaction. This might mean joining clubs, volunteering, or attending events where they can meet new friends and build lasting connections.

Support for Caregivers
Creating a life plan is not just for the individual; it also supports caregivers and families. Knowing there’s a plan in place gives peace of mind. It means they can work together to support the person’s goals and dreams.

Lifelong Learning and Growth
Life doesn’t stand still, and neither should a life plan. It can evolve as the person grows and their interests change. This ongoing process encourages lifelong learning and growth.

Future Security
A life plan can also address financial and legal matters, ensuring that the person is cared for in the future. It’s like building a safety net for peace of mind.

Celebrating Achievements
Life plans include milestones and goals. When these are achieved, it’s cause for celebration! It’s a way to recognize the person’s hard work and success, boosting their confidence and motivation.

Advocacy and Rights
A life plan can help protect individuals’ rights and ensure they have a say in their lives. It’s a powerful tool for advocating for what they need and deserve.

Creating a life plan for adults with intellectual disabilities is a valuable step towards a brighter, more fulfilling future. It provides clarity, support, and a sense of purpose. It’s about empowering individuals to reach for the stars and helping them confidently navigate life’s journey. Every person deserves the opportunity to live their best life, and a well-crafted life plan can help make that a reality.

The post Life Plan for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities first appeared on Adulting Life Skills Resources and is written by lorna.

Self-defense Training for Individuals with Disabilities

lorna — Sat, 01 Apr 2023 17:26:42 +0000

Adulting Life Skills Resources

Self-defense Training for Individuals with Disabilities

While self-defense is often associated with physical protection, its benefits extend beyond that, especially for teens and adults with disabilities. It can offer increased independence, confidence, and a sense of empowerment.

Primarily, self-defense training equips individuals with disabilities with the means to protect themselves physically. Unfortunately, people with disabilities can be more vulnerable to physical harm due to limited mobility or communication difficulties. Self-defense training provides them with valuable techniques to defend themselves in physical altercations, granting them greater control over their safety and personal space.

The advantages of self-defense training go well beyond physical protection. For individuals with disabilities, learning self-defense can be an empowering journey that boosts self-esteem and confidence. This boost in self-assuredness is vital for those who may feel marginalized or excluded from society due to their disability. By mastering self-defense skills, your son or daughter can gain control over their lives and their world.

Self-defense training can also increase independence in daily life. Learning to protect themselves can make individuals with disabilities more comfortable with going out independently or engaging in activities they might have considered too risky. This newfound independence is extremely valuable for those who rely on others for assistance with daily tasks. Knowing how to defend oneself can be a game-changer, granting greater autonomy and self-reliance.

It’s not just individuals with disabilities who benefit from self-defense training – caregivers do, too. Caregivers often find themselves in the challenging position of balancing their loved one’s need for care with their desire for independence. Knowing that their loved one has the skills to protect themselves can provide caregivers with peace of mind, allowing them to step back and let their loved ones explore the world more freely.

Furthermore, self-defense training imparts crucial social and communication skills. Beyond physical techniques, many self-defense programs include strategies for de-escalating conflicts and assertive communication. These skills are invaluable in various aspects of life, including school and the workplace. Learning self-defense also offers individuals with disabilities the opportunity to socialize with others facing similar challenges, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.

It’s important to note that not all self-defense programs are created equal, especially concerning individuals with disabilities. Finding a program specifically designed for people with disabilities, one that addresses their unique needs and challenges, is paramount. This may entail adapting physical techniques, providing accommodations like interpreters or adaptive equipment, and creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all participants.

Self-defense training holds a wealth of benefits for teens and adults with disabilities. It offers physical protection, increased independence, boosted self-esteem, improved confidence, and valuable social and communication skills.

The post Self-defense Training for Individuals with Disabilities first appeared on Adulting Life Skills Resources and is written by lorna.

Transdisciplinary Team Approach

lorna — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 16:30:41 +0000

Adulting Life Skills Resources

Transdisciplinary Team Approach

As a parent of a special needs adult child, I have navigated the labyrinthine challenges of helping my child attain greater independence. Whether deciphering the complexities of the healthcare system or seeking ways to make daily tasks more manageable, the journey toward increased autonomy can be daunting. Yet, amidst these challenges, one approach has emerged as remarkably effective—the Transdisciplinary Team Approach.

The Transdisciplinary Team Approach is a collaborative strategy that brings together professionals dedicated to assisting individuals with disabilities in achieving greater independence. This interdisciplinary team encompasses specialists from various fields, including occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, psychology, and social work. By pooling their expertise and working in synergy, these professionals address all dimensions of an individual’s life—physical, emotional, social, and cognitive needs.

One of the pivotal advantages of the Transdisciplinary Team Approach is its capacity to provide a comprehensive and holistic perspective on supporting individuals with disabilities. The involvement of multiple professionals ensures that the team can collectively identify and address any challenges or barriers hindering the individual’s path to greater independence. This approach proves particularly efficacious for individuals with complex needs, fostering a more coordinated and collaborative approach to care.

Another compelling benefit of the Transdisciplinary Team Approach is its potential to enhance professional communication and collaboration. By fostering an environment of shared knowledge and expertise, the team develops a unified understanding of the individual’s needs and aspirations. This alignment ensures everyone works harmoniously towards common objectives and helps avoid redundant efforts.

The Transdisciplinary Team Approach streamlines care, providing an integrated and efficient framework. Involving professionals from diverse disciplines enables the team to construct a cohesive and coordinated care plan.

This ensures that the individual receives appropriate interventions and support, thus reducing the likelihood of unnecessary hospitalizations or emergency department visits.

The most profound advantage of the Transdisciplinary Team Approach lies in its ability to promote independence among individuals with disabilities. Through collective effort, the team identifies and addresses obstacles to independence, fostering the development of essential skills and strategies. This encompasses daily task management, communication, socialization, and self-advocacy techniques.

Beyond independence, the Transdisciplinary Team Approach enhances the overall quality of life for individuals with disabilities. By addressing all facets of an individual’s existence, the team contributes to positive emotional well-being, improved socialization, and enhanced self-esteem. These factors significantly boost an individual’s self-worth and reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.

This approach extends its benefits to families and caregivers of individuals with disabilities. Collaborating with a professional team offers families profound support and reduces the isolation often associated with caregiving.

Additionally, the team equips families with valuable information, resources, and connections to other support services within the community.

The Transdisciplinary Team Approach is an extraordinarily effective strategy for facilitating greater independence among individuals with disabilities. By assembling a team of professionals from diverse fields, this approach delivers comprehensive, holistic care, fosters communication and collaboration among experts, streamlines and integrates care, enhances independence and overall quality of life, and provides invaluable support to families and caregivers. As a parent of a special needs adult child, I have witnessed the transformative power of this approach. I wholeheartedly encourage other families and caregivers to consider it as they endeavor to support their loved ones on the journey toward greater independence.

The post Transdisciplinary Team Approach first appeared on Adulting Life Skills Resources and is written by lorna.

Independent Living Skills

lorna — Sat, 18 Feb 2023 16:00:21 +0000

Adulting Life Skills Resources

Independent Living Skills

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a unique journey for individuals and their caregivers. It shapes how individuals communicate, interact, and learn. The challenge of teaching independent living skills can feel daunting for parents of teens and young adults with autism and related intellectual disabilities. However, the rewards are immeasurable, as these skills are the building blocks of their transition to adulthood.

Teaching independent living skills to this remarkable group is not just about survival; it’s about empowerment, self-sufficiency, and enabling them to successfully navigate the complexities of adulthood. Let’s explore some of the practical independent living skills that are paramount to their development.

The Art of Managing Finances
One of the most critical independent living skills for teens and young adults with autism and related intellectual disabilities is financial management.

Learning to navigate the world of finances empowers them to make informed decisions about spending, saving, and planning for the future.

Real-Life Scenarios
One effective way to teach financial skills is through real-life scenarios. These scenarios illustrate the importance of budgeting, saving time, and making wise financial choices. Whether it’s planning for a major purchase or managing day-to-day expenses, these scenarios are practical and will resonate with teens and young adults.

Banking Basics
Parents and caregivers can also introduce the basics of banking. This includes maintaining a checking account, setting up a savings account, and using credit cards responsibly. Through role-playing activities and discussions, teens and young adults can learn the ins and outs of managing their finances.

Budgeting Mastery
Budgeting is a fundamental skill that lays the foundation for financial independence. Teaching them how to create and stick to a budget is crucial. It empowers them to manage their money wisely and make financial decisions aligned with their goals.

Professional Growth: Nurturing Job Skills
Another pivotal aspect of independent living is acquiring job skills. Employment provides financial independence, fosters a sense of purpose, and develops self-reliance.

Hands-On Experience
An effective way to teach job skills is by providing hands-on experience in a job setting. Volunteering, internships, or working under supervision can assist with this. Hands-on experience can help teens and young adults develop the skills necessary for employment and the ability to interact with employers and coworkers. Parents and caregivers can play a role in teaching resume writing, interview skills, and the importance of punctuality and attendance. These are essential components of a successful job search and employment journey.

Safety First: Navigating Home Safety
Home safety is a crucial independent living skill that ensures personal well-being and peace of mind. Teaching this skill equips teens and young adults with the knowledge to prevent accidents and respond effectively in emergencies.

Practical Drills
Introducing home safety through hands-on activities like fire drills and first aid demonstrations can be engaging and instructive. These drills help teens and young adults understand the importance of smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and emergency preparedness.

Hazard Awareness
Teaching hazard awareness is essential. It covers topics such as locking doors and windows, notifying someone when leaving the house, and being alert to potential dangers. These skills enhance personal safety and instill a sense of responsibility.

Navigating Online Safety
Online safety is a vital component of independent living in a digital age. Parents and caregivers play a pivotal role in setting boundaries and educating teens and young adults about online safety.

Setting Boundaries
Establishing boundaries and expectations for online activities is essential. This includes monitoring online activity, setting time limits, and discussing potential risks associated with online interactions.

Privacy Protection
Teaching teens and young adults about online privacy, cyberbullying, and how to safeguard personal information online is crucial. These lessons equip them with the tools to navigate the digital landscape safely.

The Reward of Independence
Teaching independent living skills to teens and young adults with autism and related intellectual disabilities is a labor of love and dedication. It requires patience, creativity, and a deep understanding of their unique needs and capabilities. While the journey may be challenging, the rewards are immeasurable.

These skills are not just about surviving in the adult world but about thriving and taking charge of one’s life. The confidence and self-sufficiency from mastering these skills empower individuals to live on their terms.

As parents, teachers, and caregivers, we hold the keys to unlocking the potential of teens and young adults with autism. By imparting these crucial independent living skills, we provide them with the foundation for a successful and fulfilling adulthood. Each individual’s journey may be unique, but the destination is clear: a life of independence, growth, and opportunity.

The post Independent Living Skills first appeared on Adulting Life Skills Resources and is written by lorna.

Employment Planning

lorna — Wed, 09 Jun 2021 20:54:14 +0000

Adulting Life Skills Resources

Employment Planning

The journey towards meaningful employment for adults on the autism spectrum can be exciting and challenging. With proper employment planning, you can turn those aspirations into reality. Let’s explore three crucial steps to guide you through this transformative process.

Step 1: The Foundation – Individual Plan for Employment (IPE)
The cornerstone of your son or daughter’s employment journey is the Individual Plan for Employment (IPE). This comprehensive plan is a roadmap to success. Working closely with their Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor is vital. Here’s what an effective IPE should include:

Clear Start and End Dates
An IPE should have a well-defined timeline. It should outline the beginning and end of vocational services that eventually lead to employment. This structure not only provides a sense of direction but also helps to measure progress effectively.

Realistic Employment Goals
Selecting the right employment goal is pivotal. It’s not about following the herd but finding a path that aligns with your child’s strengths and career interests. Consult the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor to evaluate their current and emerging skills.

This assessment should be grounded in self-awareness. After all, choosing a career you’re passionate about can significantly impact your long-term success.

Resource Allocation
Once their employment goal is defined, it’s time to consider the resources needed to achieve it. Employment planning resources may include:
Education and Training: Depending on their chosen career, they may need to pursue college or technical training to acquire the necessary skills.
Job Coaching: For many individuals, job coaching can be a valuable resource, providing guidance and support as you navigate the workplace.
Supported Employment: This service offers a helping hand in securing and maintaining employment.

Remember, your Individual Plan for Employment is a dynamic document. If you find that their needs are not being adequately met by the services initially offered, don’t hesitate to request revisions. The IPE should be tailored for their unique journey.

Step 2: Monitoring Progress – Frequent Checkpoints
Setting a clear path with an IPE is just the beginning; the real work is tracking their progress. To do this effectively, consider these strategies:

Regular Checkpoints: Establish frequent checkpoints between the start and end date of your IPE. These can be monthly email follow-ups with their Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. These communications serve as opportunities to assess your son or daughter’s advancement and address any challenges that may arise.

The Power of ‘To-Do’ Lists: Creating a ‘to-do’ list can be a game-changer. It helps you keep tabs on tasks, ensuring that you stay on course and help your son or daughter to meet their goals. Additionally, ‘to-do’ lists can serve as a source of motivation and a means to celebrate small victories. Remember, every step counts on the path to employment success.

Step 3: Crafting Your Future – Choosing the Right Career
A career choice is a pivotal decision that will influence long-term success and overall job satisfaction. Here’s how to make this decision wisely:

Align with Your Passions:
Start by considering your son or daughter’s genuine interests and passions. For instance, if your son or daughter avoids the great outdoors, pursuing a career as a park ranger is probably not the best fit. Your job should align with your passions, not force you into something that feels like a daily struggle.

Assess Your Skills
Evaluate their current skills and decide which ones could be further developed. Work closely with the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor during this process. A self-assessment can guide them toward a career that suits their abilities and aspirations.

Future Growth Potential
Think long-term. Most individuals will spend 30 to 40 years in the workforce, so choose a career that matches your son or daughter’s interests and offers room for growth and advancement. Building a solid foundation early on can set them up for a lifetime of fulfilling work and financial stability.

We all have unique talents, and the world eagerly awaits our contributions. Employment planning is the first step in harnessing your son or daughter’s potential. With proper planning, they can earn a living and make a meaningful impact in their community. So, take the time to define a path, set achievable goals, and allocate the necessary resources.

The post Employment Planning first appeared on Adulting Life Skills Resources and is written by lorna.

Guardianship

Lorna Murdock — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 02:54:41 +0000

Adulting Life Skills Resources

Guardianship

As parents, we’ve watched our children grow and celebrate their milestones. And then, that moment arrives: their 18th birthday. Suddenly, they inherit all the legal rights and responsibilities of adulthood. They can get married, sign contracts, and make decisions independently. It’s a pivotal time, and it often leads us to reflect on the memorable experiences of our youth – including that beautiful soul with a 1995 forest green Ford Mustang GT who wanted to marry us on the spot, even if it meant co-signing for the Mustang as a symbol of our love.

If you find yourself in that situation, don’t worry; blink twice, and we’ll be rescued!

But on a more serious note, this newfound adult status means that our children can make choices regarding their medical care, where they live, and who they live with. Schools, doctors, and financial institutions are no longer required to communicate with parents without the authorization of our young adults. It’s a shift that should prompt us to consider legal guardianship.

The Importance of Guardianship
Guardianship is a vital tool that allows parents to continue guiding and protecting their adult children as they transition into this new phase of life. It empowers parents, who become legal guardians, to assist their children in making important decisions and safeguarding their best interests. However, it’s essential to recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to guardianship. Deciding on the correct type of guardianship is a profoundly personal decision.

As parents, we have a unique understanding of our children’s needs. Still, it’s also essential to seek professional guidance to assess their abilities and determine the type of support they will require as adults. Guardianship can vary in scope, and understanding the available options is paramount.

Types of Guardianship
Guardianship comes in various forms, each tailored to meet specific needs. Here’s an overview:

Full Guardianship
Full guardianship grants the guardian complete decision-making authority over all aspects of the individual’s life, including personal, medical, and financial affairs. This is the most restrictive form of guardianship and is typically considered when the individual requires comprehensive support.

Limited Guardianship
Limited guardianship provides partial decision-making authority, focusing on specific areas of life, such as medical care and financial matters. With this type of guardianship, parents can petition the court to assist their child in making decisions in select areas while allowing them independence.

Joint Guardianship
Joint guardianship allows more than one individual, such as both parents, to share guardianship authority and responsibility. This collaborative approach can be valuable when parents are actively involved in their child’s life.

Guardian Advocate
Guardian advocacy is often the least restrictive form of guardianship. It empowers the guardian to advocate for the best interests of their child without the need for a full guardianship arrangement. This option is typically reserved for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Guardianship serves a dual purpose – it gives parents the legal authority to assist their children in making decisions and safeguards their medical and financial interests. It’s a crucial step towards ensuring that our children continue to receive the support and guidance they need as they embark on their adult journey.

The Guardianship Process
Becoming a guardian involves a legal process that varies from state to state. In most states, a background check is required to become a guardian. The best way to determine specific requirements in your state is to contact the appropriate authorities or legal professionals who can guide you through the process.

Guardianship is not just a legal formality; it’s a means of ensuring that our children are protected as they enter adulthood. As parents and legal guardians, it allows us to continue playing an active role in their lives, offering guidance, support, and advocacy. So, as your child approaches their 18th birthday, consider the importance of guardianship and take the necessary steps to safeguard their future. After all, our role as parents never truly ends; it evolves.

The post Guardianship first appeared on Adulting Life Skills Resources and is written by Lorna Murdock.

The Power of Community Inclusion

lorna — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 21:13:24 +0000

Adulting Life Skills Resources

The Power of Community Inclusion

Why is community inclusion vital in enhancing your child’s quality of life? We are wired for social connection. These connections are even more rewarding when they occur within age-appropriate social groups. Throughout our lives, we continue to seek out online and in-person communities. Social media has revolutionized our world because it caters to our fundamental need to belong and connect.

We find ourselves spending hours on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Pinterest, and LinkedIn, all driven by our insatiable craving for connection and inclusion.

The Impact of Social Inclusion
In 2016, Florida Atlantic University (FAU) recognized the importance of community inclusion and launched the FAU Academy for Community Inclusion, a transformative two-year program. This initiative focuses on developing a range of skills, from employment skills to supported community access and independent living skills.

Practical knowledge is also imparted, including study techniques, time management, soft skills for the workplace, personal finance, and internet safety. But FAU is not alone in this endeavor. Major colleges nationwide are creating academic-based community inclusion programs designed specifically for individuals on the autism spectrum.

To empower students who graduated from high school to navigate life and foster a deep desire for active involvement in their communities. In recent years, schools like Florida International University (FIU) and the University of North Florida have followed suit, recognizing the importance of community inclusion in the lives of their students. These programs represent a significant step in the right direction, yet much work must be done before all residents are fully included in their communities. While the admission criteria may vary from one institution to another, the overarching goal remains the same.

The Value of Social Interactions
Unfortunately, for some individuals on the autism spectrum, life can become isolating after graduating from high school. The absence of close and supportive friendships can have a profound impact, extending beyond one’s social life. Numerous studies have linked loneliness to increased rates of depression and other medical issues.

The significance of forging meaningful connections cannot be overstated. It’s an essential component of a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle. The Student Access Services office at your local college or university can be a valuable resource for discovering more about community inclusion programs. The power of community inclusion cannot be understated. It’s a force that can transform lives, providing individuals with a sense of belonging and purpose. As parents and caregivers, we are responsible for championing these initiatives and ensuring our children can thrive within their communities.

Inclusion isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a pathway to a brighter, more interconnected future where everyone can find their rightful place and live their dreams to the fullest.

The post The Power of Community Inclusion first appeared on Adulting Life Skills Resources and is written by lorna.

Job Coach

lorna — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 21:10:02 +0000

Adulting Life Skills Resources

Job Coach

It is natural for parents to want the best for their children, especially when it comes to their future careers. Navigating the complex world of job hunting and career development can be challenging, especially for those of us who had our first job interview a few decades ago. If you find yourself in this boat, fear not; there’s a superhero in the job-seeking universe – the job coach.

A job coach is a dedicated professional trained to assist individuals in finding the right job and providing valuable career guidance. Job coaches bring a contemporary perspective and specialized expertise, making them an invaluable resource in your son or daughter’s journey to meaningful employment.

The Role of a Job Coach
So, what exactly does a job coach do, and how can they benefit your son or daughter’s career prospects? Let’s explore their multifaceted role in the job-seeking process.

Career Assistance
At the heart of a job coach’s mission is to provide career assistance to individuals seeking employment. Whether your son or daughter is a recent graduate entering the workforce or a young adult with unique needs and abilities, a job coach is well-equipped to offer personalized guidance.

Finding the Right Fit
One of the initial steps in the job coaching process involves conducting a skills assessment. This comprehensive evaluation helps identify your son or daughter’s abilities, interests, and personality traits. By delving into their education, hobbies, and life experiences, a job coach can pinpoint emerging skills that can be further developed. This assessment serves as a crucial foundation for job recommendations and career planning.

Job Readiness
Job coaches go the extra mile to prepare your son or daughter for the competitive job market. They can assist in creating a polished resume, refine interviewing techniques, and build the confidence needed to excel during job interviews. This includes conducting mock interviews and providing valuable tips to alleviate the stress associated with interviews. The goal is to ensure effective communication and a strong performance during interviews.

On-the-Job Training
Job coaches often provide on-the-job training, accompanying your son or daughter to the workplace. They become familiar with the job duties and offer any necessary coaching to guarantee success. This hands-on approach extends to time management skills, conflict resolution strategies, and problem-solving techniques. It’s about equipping your son or daughter with the skills needed to secure a job and thrive in the workplace.

Workplace Assistance
Job coaches can also recommend reasonable work accommodations tailored to your son or daughter’s needs. They work closely with employers to ensure these accommodations are implemented effectively. It’s about bridging the gap between your son or daughter’s unique requirements and the workplace environment. Their role is to advocate for your son or daughter and educate employers on what is needed to create an inclusive and supportive work environment.

Ongoing Support
Crucially, the role of a job coach extends beyond job placement. They remain involved in your son or daughter’s employment journey until they are no longer needed. This includes teaching your son or daughter how to interact with supervisors and coworkers, advocating for basic rights such as scheduled breaks and lunch, and providing ongoing support and guidance as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of their career.

How to Find a Job Coach
If you’re convinced of the benefits of a job coach for your child, the next step is to connect with one. Your son or daughter’s Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor is an excellent resource to help you find a job coach to meet their needs. These professionals specialize in matching individuals with disabilities to the right job coaches, ensuring a tailored and effective coaching experience.

The journey to meaningful employment for your son or daughter doesn’t have to be a solo mission. Job coaches are the unsung heroes who can provide the guidance, support, and expertise needed to navigate the intricate world of job hunting and career development. Their role is securing a job and empowering your son or daughter with the skills, confidence, and resources to thrive in the workplace. So, embrace the assistance of a job coach and set your son or daughter on a successful and fulfilling career journey.

The post Job Coach first appeared on Adulting Life Skills Resources and is written by lorna.

Special Needs Trust

lorna — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 21:07:17 +0000

Adulting Life Skills Resources

Special Needs Trust

We’ve all encountered that “Uncle Jack” with the groundbreaking business idea that can’t fail. He claims it will revolutionize the world as we know it, but there’s just one slight hitch – he needs a mere $50,000 to get started. As we contemplate our futures, it’s not uncommon to imagine scenarios where we’re no longer around to dispel Uncle Jack’s entrepreneurial dreams.

While our hypothetical Uncle Jack might remain the stuff of family legends, the need to safeguard our loved ones’ financial futures is a genuine concern, particularly for those caring for children on the autism spectrum. This is where the concept of a third-party Special Needs Trust enters the picture, offering a robust financial safety net that can provide ongoing support and maintain their quality of life.

The Noble Purpose of a Special Needs Trust
Third-party Special Needs Trusts are powerful financial instruments meticulously crafted to ensure that the long-term financial needs of a child or grandchild with intellectual disabilities are comprehensively addressed throughout their lifetime. A Special Needs Trust lets you specify precisely how and when the funds will be used.

Crafting the Trust: Why an Elder Law Attorney is Essential
Creating a Special Needs Trust is a significant endeavor that necessitates the expertise of an “Elder Attorney.” These professionals possess the legal acumen to draft a comprehensive trust document that leaves no room for ambiguity. This includes specifying how the trust funds will be invested and disbursed, thereby securing long-term financial support for your child.

Funding and Managing the Trust: An Array of Options
The beauty of a Special Needs Trust lies in its flexibility. It can include various financial assets, such as property, stocks, retirement funds, bonds, life insurance policies, and multiple investments. The trust itself can be managed by an individual or a professional entity, with the trust’s creator having the authority to determine who administers it. These funds can be used for various purposes, spanning education, recreation, assistive technology, counseling, and medical attention, ensuring a life enriched beyond the basic necessities.

Understanding the Types of Special Needs Trusts
Third-party Special Needs Trusts come in two primary forms: standalone and pooled. Standalone trusts are distinct legal entities established solely for the benefit of the individual with special needs. On the other hand, pooled trusts are managed by non-profit organizations and accommodate multiple beneficiaries. All assets are commingled in pooled trusts for investment purposes, while each beneficiary maintains a separate account. The choice between the two depends on individual circumstances and preferences.

The Crucial Role in Preserving Public Benefits
Perhaps one of the most critical aspects of a third-party Special Needs Trust is its ability to harmonize with public benefits such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. Without proper planning, an inheritance or substantial financial support could inadvertently disqualify the individual with special needs from these essential programs. By establishing a Special Needs Trust, you circumvent this risk, allowing your child to receive the necessary public benefits while still enjoying the supplementary support provided by the trust.

A Trust is not reserved for the wealthy elite to secure their heirs’ futures. It’s a powerful vehicle that ensures your child’s continued well-being and care when you are no longer around. It’s a testament to love and foresight, a legacy of care and security extending beyond your physical presence. In a world filled with uncertainties, a Special Needs Trust stands as a steadfast pillar of support, ensuring your child’s needs are met long after you’ve bid your farewells.

The post Special Needs Trust first appeared on Adulting Life Skills Resources and is written by lorna.