Autism in Adults: Living Arrangements

There are several possible living arrangements for adults with autism, including:

 

Some adults with autism are able to live entirely on their own. Others can live semi-independently in their own home or apartment if they have assistance with solving major problems, such as personal finances or dealing with the government agencies that provide services to people with disabilities. This assistance can be provided by family, a professional agency, or another type of provider.

 

Government funds are available for families that choose to have their adult child with autism live at home. These funds are available through programs such as:

 

Information about these programs is available from the Social Security Administration (SSA). An appointment with a local SSA office is a good first step to take in understanding the programs for which the young adult is eligible.

 

Some families open their homes to provide long-term care to unrelated adults with autism. If the home teaches self-care and housekeeping skills and arranges leisure activities, it is called a "skill-development" home.

 

People with disabilities frequently live in group homes or apartments staffed by professionals who help the individuals with basic needs. These often include meal preparation, housekeeping, and personal care needs. Higher functioning adults with autism may be able to live in a home or apartment where staff only visit a few times a week. These people generally prepare their own meals, go to work, and conduct other daily activities on their own.