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Transition to Adulthood
Some children with SNI will live into adolescence and beyond. As they mature, there will be emotional and practical matters to consider. It is important to understand, anticipate, and plan for the issues that may arise. The period to begin thinking about your child’s transition to legal adulthood typically begins in mid to late adolescence, giving you time to seek guidance and gather information.
Systems of care differ from one country to the next. While some of the content included in this chapter may be useful regardless of where you reside, it is based on systems in the United States of America.
Your Team:
A lawyer.
A professional who can help families manage their financial affairs and work towards their long-term financial goals.
A specialist whose aim is to improve the quality of life of their patients over the course of their illness regardless of stage, by relieving pain and other symptoms of that illness.
A medical professional who practices general medicine.
A trained professional who works with people, groups and communities to help them better their lives.
A social worker can advise you on the steps to take as you plan for the transition. An attorney can assist with navigating legal concerns and advise you about involving a financial planner. Your child’s primary physician can suggest a new adult clinician if necessary, and the specialists can recommend adult counterparts if appropriate. Palliative care clinicians can help guide the process, and offer support for making decisions that work with your family’s needs and values.