Strategies to Support Parents Caring for Adult Children with Disabilities

Parents caring for their adult children with communication disorders walk a tight rope. They precariously inch along the wire of life, balancing their own responsibilities plus those of their children. They also balance myriad schedules, health care professionals, therapies, medications, and special equipment necessary for activities of daily living. Many of these visionary parents rejected the prevailing past trends to institutionalize their children. These parents might have been active in making sure their children received appropriate services in school, or home schooled. Many also advocated to change laws improving education, housing, employment and healthcare options and coverage. However, the balance grows more challenging as these parents age. Their own needs get heavier as they experience declines in functioning, income, and health. Based on research and personal experiences, an SLP strives to build a community for adults with autism. Focusing on caregivers—in addition to the client—may help improve treatment outcomes. 5 Strategies to Help Families Act as Speech and Language Coaches Speech-language pathologists serving these families can help the parents as well as their children prepare for the future. Many SLPs work as part of an interprofessional team. For example, in addition to SLPs, physical therapists, occupational therapists, nutritionists and others provide coordinated care that might include simultaneous delivery. These team members can use eac...
Source: American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Press Releases - Category: Speech-Language Pathology Authors: Tags: Academia & Research Health Care Private Practice Slider Speech-Language Pathology Autism Spectrum Disorder Source Type: blogs