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Successful Transitions to Adulthood for Youth with I/DD

October 6, 2025

Successful Transitions to Adulthood for Youth with I/DD

There are many factors to consider when thinking about the transition to adulthood for your child with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).

Careful planning, often starting as early as age 14, can help your child move from school-based services to adult life with confidence. 

This guide provides practical steps, helpful tips, and trusted resources to support your child in preparing for adulthood. 

Transition planning at school from ages 14-21

In Colorado, students with I/DD can continue receiving school district services until age 21, even if they participate in a graduation ceremony.  However, there is a difference between walking at the graduation ceremony and accepting a diploma, which signifies graduation and the departure from school. Accepting a diploma officially ends eligibility for school services, so families should consider timing carefully. 

Schools are required to provide transition planning services for students with I/DD starting at age 14, which will help your child identify interests, goals, and skills for adulthood. 

A strong transition plan helps your child:

  • Increase independence  
  • Identify life goals 
  • Build job and life skills  

Tips for families

  • Ask your child’s school about all available transition supports. 
  • Encourage volunteer or work-based learning opportunities during school to further your child’s opportunities to explore different paths.  
  • Support your child in practicing self-advocacy and learning about their disability. 

Key steps to take at age 17 and beyond

At RMHS, children receiving I/DD case management services are automatically referred to adult services before turning 18. Families participate in Options Counseling to decide which adult Medicaid waiver best fits their child’s needs. 

In addition to transitioning to adult case management services, families should begin planning in the following important areas around age 17: 

1. Guardianship and decision-making

At age 18, young people are legally recognized as adults and can make their own medical, financial, and personal decisions. Parents or caregivers cannot continue making these decisions without legal arrangements. 

Options to consider:

  • Guardianship: A court grants parents or another adult legal authority to make decisions in specific areas where support is required. Guardianships are typically limited to clearly defined areas. 
  • Supported decision-making: Allows individuals with I/DD to make their own decisions with support from trusted family, friends, or mentors. Agreements are personalized and outline the supporter’s role.

Guardianship & supported decision making resources

2. Financial planning

Financial independence in adulthood requires careful preparation, especially if your adult child will utilize Medicaid and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).   

Key steps:

  • Open a bank account in your child’s name at age 18:
    It’s important to keep your money and your child’s money separated once they enter adulthood.  
  • Apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) at age 18:
    Eligibility is based only on your child’s income and resources and excludes parental income. SSI also provides automatic Medicaid access. 
  • Consider a Special Needs Trust or ABLE Account:
    These accounts safeguard assets, cover long-term expenses (like medical care, transportation, and housing), and protect SSI/Medicaid eligibility. 

Financial planning resources

3. Employment, community, and skill-building opportunities

Employment, skill development, and community participation help young adults with I/DD build independence and confidence.  

Employment & community resources

Preparing for a Confident Transition

The journey to adulthood for youth with I/DD can feel both daunting and full of possibility. By starting early, building a strong transition plan, and connecting with the right supports, you’ll help your child step into adult life with greater independence and opportunity. 

At RMHS, we’re here to support the transition from children’s to adult case management services while also connecting families to the broader network of organizations that specialize in guardianship, financial planning, employment, community connections, and more. 

Together, we can help your child enter adulthood with the tools, confidence, and resources they need to thrive.