Examining transitions from youth to adult services for young persons with autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents pervasive challenges for individuals throughout their lifetime. Although some financial, community, and individual supports are available for children, there are fewer resources available for adults with ASD, their families, and/or caregivers. It is important to understand the multidimensional shifts associated with the transition from adolescence to adulthood for individuals with ASD. To better understand the transitional process, a qualitative study comprised 11 semi-structured interviews with individuals with ASD and their families. Interviews elicited the experiences of individuals and families impacted by ASD as they transition to adulthood and adult systems of care. This study found that individuals with ASD and their family are exposed to a "lifetime of difficult transitions" due to a limited number of service providers and resources including stringent and restrictive program and funding criteria. As a result, individuals with ASD and their families were concerned about the ability of some individuals with ASD to establish meaningful lives in adulthood. These findings challenge existing barriers and broader societal values and stigma that impede emerging adults with developmental disabilities.