Intensive Support • Ages 18-22 • Goal:
Select a Housing Option
Action step 1.
Review your wants and needs related to housing.
Think again about what you’re planning for adult living. Make a list of things you need in your home. This could include being in a quiet neighborhood or having a bathroom close by. Think about what works for you now and what you need in your new space to feel comfortable and supported.
Resources
Action step 2.
Visit and shadow different living options.
Although some housing options may look perfect online or in photos, it’s important to visit them in person to be sure that they’re a good fit for you. Find out if you can spend a night there. This can help you find out about sensory issues onsite that you may not notice on a short visit during the day. You may also consider a residential transition program, where you can continue to learn and strengthen your independent living skills while living in a supported environment for a short period of time.
Action step 3.
Continue to work on setting up services and supports.
Make sure you apply for home and community-based services (HCBS) as early as possible. Check in with your local housing authority on your status on the waiting list for rental assistance. Once you turn 18, you are eligible for low-income housing supports based on your own income. Continue to work with a special needs planner to be sure you are saving as much as possible for your future housing needs.
Resources
Words to know
Action step 4.
Continue to assess your new living situation.
Once you move to independent living, it doesn’t have to be forever. If you need to, you can make a change. Your choice of housing may change as you get older. This is OK. Continuing to evaluate your living situation and what is or isn’t working can help you plan for the future.
You’ve reached the end of the action steps for this support level and age group.
- To find services and providers in your area, visit our Resource Guide.
- For direct contact with a member of our Autism Response Team, call 1-888-AUTISM2 (1-888-288-4762).
- Send an email to: help@autismspeaks.org.
