Becoming an adult is more than being physically mature. It typically comes with greater independence and responsibilities. For adults with disabilities, they often require resources to help them successfully navigate a complex world and its challenges. In this article, we’ll look at ways people with disabilities can prepare for a fulfilling life as an adult.

Making the transition from youth to adult

To make the successful move into adulthood, it helps to know what will be expected and how to meet those expectations. By learning some of those skills now, your child will be prepared for taking on new tasks, and you will be by their side to provide support. To guide you along this journey, the PACER Center has created a helpful sheet called “Ten Tips That May Help Your Child’s Transition to Adulthood.” A few of its recommendations that caught our eye include:

• Build a work resume. Summer jobs and volunteering can help build the necessary business and social skills your child needs to compete in the job market.
• Practice money management skills. By learning how to use an ATM card and make budgeting decisions, your child will get an invaluable financial education that empowers them to lead a life of self-determination.
• Visit postsecondary training and education programs. Show your child what is possible by visiting schools and exploring their programs. You may also meet with the school’s Disability Services office and ask for clear information about the accommodations that may or may not be provided.

The Social Security Administration has a page of resources to help young people transition to adulthood. It includes many resources for those with disabilities. You’ll find links to information on:

• Tax benefits for people with disabilities.
• Free resources for finding a job
• How to plan for adulthood. Before Age 18 includes action steps that teens and families can take, and those steps are conveniently organized by age group.

Living as an adult with disabilities.

Adults with disabilities may need assistance with finding a place to live, getting a job, and learning how to live independently. The sources below address each of these issues:

• Renting with disabilities. You cannot be denied an application to rent an apartment because you have a disability. If you have disability that requires what the Americans With Disabilities Act calls a “reasonable accommodation,” the landlord must comply. Learn more about renting with disabilities.   
• Independent Living Centers. Also known as ILC’s, these are nonresidential communities that help people with disabilities achieve and maintain fulfilling, self-sufficient lives.
• The Vocational Rehabilitation Agency. VRs typically help people with disabilities find employment and gain their independence. Their services include:
  • Vocational guidance and counseling
  • Job development, placement, and follow-up services.

Find Florida’s Vocational Rehabilitation services at www.rehabworks.org. They will help you learn about your employment options and find a better job than you currently have.

Learn more about these and related programs at FND’s information hub for adult services.