After Age 21, Kids with Disabilities Age Out of Many Services, but Parents Concerns Dont Abate
After age 21, young adults with disabilities are no longer eligible to receive the basic services and supports required by federal law through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Whatever help families living with disabilities may have received through childhood simply, and quite suddenly, goes away. In its stead, families are often met with heightened concerns about their adult childs immediate needs for employment, housing, independence, transportation, social interactions, recreation, health care, and financial security.
According to Easter Seals Living with Disabilities Study, the results of which will be release on November 4, 2010, 8 in 10 parents of adults without a disability rate their childs quality of life as excellent or good, compared to only 6 in 10 parents of adult children with a disability. Parents of adult children with disabilities are more concerned than their counterparts about their childs ability to manage their own finances, live independently, find employment and a life partner. The good news is that adults with disabilities can live, work, learn and play in their communities when given the proper tools and supports. Easter Seals works with adults with developmental disabilities across the lifespan, encouraging them to find meaningful employment and live independent lives after leaving the school system.
Available to talk to your listeners on November 4, 2010 is Patricia Wright, Easter Seals Director of Autism Services. Easter Seals is a non-profit that offers services to people of all ages with disabilities. Wright will talk about the recent findings from its study and whats available for adults with disabilities, as well as their families and caregivers.
ABOUT THE TALENT: Patricia Wright has a passion for education and advocacy and has dedicated her career to ensuring that individuals with autism are fully-included in society. Her personal mission is to offer the support that makes it possible for people with autism lead meaningful, happy and productive lives. As Easter Seals National Director of Autism Services, Wright leads ASD programs for Easter Seals, the nations largest provider of services for individuals with autism across the life span.
This interview is sponsored by Easter Seals.
Interviews with: Patricia Wright, Easter Seals National Dir., Autism
For more information please visit www.easterseals.com
