Securing Their Future
A compassionate guide to planning for your loved one's future.
Planning ahead is one of the greatest acts of love. We address this with the clarity and compassion it deserves.
Guardianship & Legal Authority
When your child turns 18, they legally become an adult — even if they cannot make safe decisions independently. Guardianship gives you the legal authority to continue making decisions on their behalf.
Questions to Ask & Explore
- ▸What type of guardianship is appropriate — full, limited, or supported decision-making?
- ▸What does the legal process look like in your state?
- ▸Is there a less restrictive alternative that preserves more of their autonomy?
- ▸What are the ongoing reporting requirements for guardians?
Special Needs Trusts & Financial Planning
Leaving money directly to a person with IDD can inadvertently disqualify them from Medicaid and SSI. A Special Needs Trust (SNT) protects their eligibility while still providing financial resources for their quality of life.
Questions to Ask & Explore
- ▸What is the difference between a first-party and third-party Special Needs Trust?
- ▸How does an ABLE account work alongside a trust?
- ▸Will an inheritance affect their government benefits?
- ▸Who should serve as trustee — a family member, professional, or nonprofit?
Helpful Resources
Housing & Supported Living Transitions
Planning where your loved one will live — and with what level of support — is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Options range from group homes to supported independent living, and the right answer depends on their needs and your family's values.
Questions to Ask & Explore
- ▸What level of support does your loved one need day-to-day?
- ▸What's the difference between a group home, an ICF, and supported independent living?
- ▸How do you get on housing waitlists in your state — and how long are they?
- ▸What rights does your loved one have in any residential setting?
Helpful Resources
Letter of Intent & Life Planning
A Letter of Intent is not a legal document — it's a detailed guide written by you about your loved one's life, preferences, routines, and wishes. It ensures that anyone who cares for them in the future truly knows them.
Questions to Ask & Explore
- ▸What does your loved one love, fear, and need that no one else would know?
- ▸What are their daily routines and how should they be maintained?
- ▸Who are the important people in their life?
- ▸What are your hopes and wishes for their future quality of life?
Helpful Resources
Who Will Care for Them When You're Gone?
This may be the hardest question every IDD family faces — and the one most often pushed aside. Planning for successor caregivers, naming them in your will, and building a support network around your loved one is an act of profound love.
Questions to Ask & Explore
- ▸Have you identified a successor caregiver — a family member, friend, or professional?
- ▸Has that person agreed and been prepared for the role?
- ▸Is there a nonprofit or agency that could provide continuity of care?
- ▸Does your loved one have relationships beyond just you that can be sustained?
Helpful Resources