Pros And Cons Of Transitioning From Youth To Adulthood

“Helping Youth with Disabilities Embrace Adulthood”

Introduction:
It is evident that transitioning from youth to adulthood can be challenging with or without a disability. The focus of this article is how to embrace the transition from youth to adulthood with a disability. Statistics attest that caregivers are not secluded from this challenging transition and may have rising concerns.

When transitioning into adulthood, one should take into consideration what it means to in fact transition. Transition requires change. Change may refer to an increase or decrease in personal and community supports, in addition to roles and functions in ones life. It is important for individuals with disabilities and families to be more informed and less discouraged. Informed of one’s resources, individual rights, responsibilities, and capabilities.

Transitioning:
Don’t wait until the very last minute! Before transitioning it is important to take into account the pros and cons one may face

during their transitioning years and develop a plan. The cons may emerge as limitations due to physical impairments, cognitive delays, or even environmental barriers.

Individuals and caregivers may have concerns relative to how one may live the most fulfilling and meaningful life once transitioning into adulthood. Fact, in order to embrace the transition it is beneficial to align and associate ones strengths, interest, preferences, and areas needing assistance to what their future may hold base off of ones developed Person Centered Plan. The Person Centered Plan focuses on what is important to the individual and what the individual will need to exercise the most meaningful and fulfilling life possible.

Keep in mind, when transitioning from youth to adulthood legal matters change. For example, will one need a Surrogate Decision Make to legally advocate and make decisions for health care, will one need a Legal Guardian to make decisions for one’s best interest, will one need a Representative Payee or a Power of Attorney to make decisions on financial matters? Will one be prepared in the event of an emergency where the caregiver is no longer able to provide the accurate care needed? These all play a part of how an individual will live a fulfilling life when transitioning. Understanding what alternatives one may have.

It is common to be unsure of which steps to take next. Nevertheless, everything is a learning experience and it is a must that individuals with disabilities and caregivers exercise resources, build a team, and look into recommended services to make use of bright future as an adult.

Individuals With Disabilities are Entitled to Rights
Several laws enable rights for individuals with disabilities including but not limited to Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1975, Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and more.

Under the American with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), “A disability is defined as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activity.

In addition, the American with Disabilities Act civil rights law prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the general public. The purpose of the law is to make sure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.

The ADA gives civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities similar to those provided to individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, and religion. It guarantees equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities in public accommodations, employment, transportation, state and local government services, and telecommunications (AmericansWithDisabilitiesAct).”

Monocacy’s Goals for Transitioning

Youth
It is important to educate, nurture, access resources, and to encourage motivation. Monocacy Start Center, Inc. emphasizes and promotes self-advocacy, self-determination, and individual growth through different lines of services including Individual Therapy, Group and Family Therapy, Developmental Disabilities Waiver, Autism Waiver, and ABA Insurance. Monocacy Start Center, Inc. provides comprehensive treatment for children, teens, and adults that may face diverse struggles. For more information about Monocacy Start Center, Inc. please contact the agency the best way convenient.

Monocacy Start Center, Inc.
65 Thomas Johnson Dr. Suite A
Frederick, MD 21702
240-651-5280