5 Common Challenges Families Face When Transitioning to Adult Services
The transition from childhood to adulthood is a big milestone, and for individuals with disabilities and their families, this shift comes with unique challenges. In this blog, we cover how to address these issues, so you can feel confident in planning for your loved one’s future.
Unlike school services, which follow a more standardized framework, adult services vary based on eligibility, funding, and individual needs. This shift can feel overwhelming, but with early planning, research, and the right resources, you can ensure that your loved one continues to receive the care and opportunities they need to thrive in adulthood.
Let’s go over some of the most common obstacles families encounter during this transition and how to address them.
Challenge #1 – Understanding NJ DDD Eligibility Criteria
Adult services through New Jersey’s Division of Developmental Disabilities (NJ DDD) are not automatically provided once a child turns 18. Unlike school services, which are guaranteed under federal law, eligibility for NJ DDD services is based on specific criteria. In order to access these services, individuals must first qualify for Medicaid, as it serves as a primary funding source for NJ DDD programs.
Eligibility criteria for NJ DDD:
- Age: The individual must be at least 18 years old to qualify for adult services through NJ DDD.
- Developmental disability: The individual must have a developmental disability, which may include intellectual disabilities, autism, cerebral palsy, or other conditions that impact daily life.
- Residency: The individual must be a resident of New Jersey and a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
- Financial eligibility: Medicaid has financial eligibility criteria, meaning the individual’s income and assets must meet certain limits to qualify for coverage.
How to get started
The process for qualifying for services begins as your loved one approaches 18. The very first step is filling out the NJ DDD application for determination of eligibility. Once this initial contact is made and NJ DDD does a preliminary application review, they will provide you with information regarding next steps.
Challenge #2 – Understanding Support Coordination
Once your loved one is approved for services through NJ DDD, a support coordination agency will be assigned to them, or you can opt to choose one. Your loved one and family will work closely with your support coordinator, ideally having a long, trusting relationship. A reliable, knowledgeable support coordinator will spend time getting to know your loved one and family and will prioritize your loved one’s care.
Working with a support coordination agency provides several key benefits:
- Personalized support: A support coordinator helps create an Individualized Service Plan (ISP) focusing on your loved one’s specific goals and needs. They connect you with the right resources – whether it’s therapy, housing, vocational training, or other community services.
- Ongoing guidance: The support coordinator helps families navigate the complexities of the service system, offering guidance at every stage. They ensure your loved one’s plan remains up-to-date and reflects any changes in needs or circumstances.
- Access to services: With their knowledge of the system, a support coordinator ensures that your loved one can access the full range of available services, often helping to uncover resources you may not have known about.
Challenge #3 – Understanding Service Options
Unlike the more predictable structure of school services, adult services can be scattered across various providers and organizations. These services might include employment support, day programs, housing assistance, transportation, and more, but each service has different eligibility criteria and funding sources.
To better understand available service options, you can:
- Research your local options: Some services may only be available in specific geographic areas, so it’s crucial to know what is offered in your community.
- Explore all service categories: Don’t overlook other areas like employment training or social activities. A well-rounded approach will help your loved one lead a fulfilling life.
- Consult with your support coordinator: A support coordinator can help identify which services are the best fit for your loved one and provide guidance on how to access them.
Understanding the full spectrum of services available ensures that you can make informed decisions that align with your loved one’s needs and goals.
READ MORE: 5 Support Services You Can Access with the Help of a Support Coordination Agency & NJ DDD
Challenge #4 – Addressing Medical Needs
As individuals with disabilities enter adulthood, their healthcare needs may change. Pediatric specialists may no longer provide care, requiring a transition to adult healthcare providers. This shift can be challenging, especially for individuals with complex medical conditions.
Key considerations for managing medical transitions include:
- Finding new healthcare providers: Seek doctors familiar with adult disabilities and long-term care needs.
- Understanding insurance changes: Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance policies may have different coverage options for adults.
- Coordinating medical records: Contact any new medical providers to ensure a smooth transfer of records between pediatric and adult doctors.
Families should begin these discussions early to avoid gaps in care and ensure their loved one continues receiving appropriate medical support.
Challenge #5 – Long-Term Planning
Planning for the long-term care and support of a loved one with disabilities is essential for a smooth transition to adulthood. While the immediate focus may be on accessing necessary services, it’s important to think beyond short-term needs and establish a comprehensive plan for the future.
To navigate long-term planning, consider:
- Emergency and crisis planning: Life can bring unexpected challenges, so having a plan in place for emergencies is essential. This includes identifying potential crisis situations (e.g., medical emergencies, behavioral issues, or sudden changes in living arrangements) and ensuring that there are clear steps to follow when these events occur.
- Financial planning and program management: While support coordinators don’t provide financial advice, they can help guide you toward finding available programs, including state and federal resources, and help you manage service coverage in the long term. As your loved one’s needs and goals change over time, your support coordinator will be by their side, adjusting their support plan as necessary.
Conclusion
With the right preparation and guidance, the transition to adult services can be an empowering step. A dedicated support coordinator will help your family navigate this process and ensure your loved one receives the care and opportunities they deserve. Embrace this new chapter with confidence and trust that your loved one’s future is filled with possibilities.
Want to work with a support coordination agency that puts your family first? Contact Skylands Family Support today.