Dear Readers,
Many of the UNIT Chapters in my book, KNOW AUTISM, KNOW YOUR CHILD with < My Thoughts > by Sara Luker, have an added APPENDIX with more pertinent information for you. Therefore, the next few BLOGS will introduce you to them.
UNIT 6 – Where to Look for Resources? CHAPTER 5 – FUTURE CHALLENGES, COLLEGE, APPENDIX F - Campus Life, & APPENDIX G - Respite Resources, & APPENDIX H - Additional Resources.
Many of the UNIT Chapters in my book, KNOW AUTISM, KNOW YOUR CHILD with < My Thoughts > by Sara Luker, have an added APPENDIX with more pertinent information for you. Therefore, the next few BLOGS will introduce you to them.
UNIT 6 – Where to Look for Resources? CHAPTER 5 – FUTURE CHALLENGES, COLLEGE, APPENDIX F - Campus Life, & APPENDIX G - Respite Resources, & APPENDIX H - Additional Resources.
UNIT 6 – Where to Look for Resources?
CHAPTER 5 – FUTURE CHALLENGES, COLLEGE
APPENDIX F - Campus Life
APPENDIX G - Respite Resources
APPENDIX H - Additional Resources.
UNIT 6, CHAPTER 5 – FUTURE CHALLENGES, COLLEGE
APPENDIX F – Campus Life
Staff Writer (2022) shares information about coursework, internship opportunities, and extracurricular activities integrating neurodiversity ideal and practices into campus life for autistic students to successfully transition to this next stage of early adulthood. Saying that what makes a job autism-friendly is usually more about the work environment than the career field. Generally speaking, the best jobs for autistic adults tend to be positions that:
Fortunately, those conditions can be found in a wide range of different fields. People with autism have found success in writing, music, the visual and performing arts, accounting, law, finance, science, human services, and many other sectors.
Not long after new college students have finished choosing the college that is right for them, they are asked to declare an academic major. For some students, this decision is easy, as their majors may have actually influenced their choice of college.
1. Make a career plan. Creating a career plan is one of the ways that students can bolster their chances of success in their chosen majors. When creating a career plan, think about the career that you want to have in the future and consider the academic and professional paths that could lead to that career.
< My Thoughts > “…career that you want to have in the future…”
Many/most persons on the autism spectrum have great difficulty with ‘future’ plans, direction, consequences, etc. The world of ‘autism’ is more about living in the moment, not projecting into the future. The ‘future self’ doesn’t exist. Nor does natural growth process, nor future learning, achievements, nor consequences. Also, understanding how to create a goal and dedicate oneself to following the steps necessary to fulfilling that goal becomes a ‘future’ learning experience within itself.
2. Do your research. Do your research about the job that you are interested in pursuing, as well as any related jobs. Is there one that would be better suited to your abilities and your preferences? Is there someone you can talk to who can tell you more about what an average day looks like at a particular job? While it is possible to switch out of your major once your interests become more apparent, you will save a good deal of time and energy by initially choosing a major that is aligned with your interests and abilities.
< My Thoughts > “…switch out of your major…”
Determining your ‘major’ is not an overnight process. By the time you do your research, the idea of that ‘long-term’ goal may become overwhelming. Colleges usually insist that you pick a ‘major’ so they can enroll you in the program which will result in a degree in the area of your major. Switching out of a major may be very costly, or even impossible; especially if tuition is backed by a grant for that degree. An option may be to enter a program, close to home, which enrolls you in the basic courses to strengthen your abilities and interests. Make certain there will be continuing support for you, in addition to their version of an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP).
3. Brace yourself for challenge. Prepare yourself for the academic challenges that await you in whichever major you choose.
< My Thoughts > “…academic challenges…”
Academia itself can be a challenge. Much depends on how ‘well-schooled’ you are. Have you learned how to learn? Have you learned to produce what the teacher expects, when s/he gives you an assignment? Do you know how to write an acceptable essay? Build success into your higher learning efforts by starting with first developing your strengths.
You may even consider learning an entry-level position, just to see if you feel comfortable and enjoy that particular professional environment. For example, seek a part-time or full-time job as a ‘mail clerk’ or ‘filing clerk’ in the agency where you are considering a career. Explore part-time or full-time positions learning general administrative duties. These duties may include filing, photocopying, sorting mail, entering database information, and other systematic responsibilities.
Another advantage of obtaining a ‘clerk’ position would be to allow for opportunities to learn the basics in a ‘real-world’ situation. With increasing levels of responsibilities, and added duties, you will become more proficient and confident. You may even interest a ‘mentor’ to help guide you on your career path.
REFERENCE:
Staff Writer (2022). Coursework, Internship Opportunities, Campus Life; Spectrum Life Magazine. Retrieved online from – https://www.spectrumlife.org
End of APPENDIX F – Campus Life
CHAPTER 5 – FUTURE CHALLENGES, COLLEGE
APPENDIX F - Campus Life
APPENDIX G - Respite Resources
APPENDIX H - Additional Resources.
UNIT 6, CHAPTER 5 – FUTURE CHALLENGES, COLLEGE
APPENDIX F – Campus Life
Staff Writer (2022) shares information about coursework, internship opportunities, and extracurricular activities integrating neurodiversity ideal and practices into campus life for autistic students to successfully transition to this next stage of early adulthood. Saying that what makes a job autism-friendly is usually more about the work environment than the career field. Generally speaking, the best jobs for autistic adults tend to be positions that:
- Allow you to focus on one task at a time
- Have clearly defined responsibilities and expectations
- Emphasize quality and accuracy over speed
- Involve some degree of structure and routine
Fortunately, those conditions can be found in a wide range of different fields. People with autism have found success in writing, music, the visual and performing arts, accounting, law, finance, science, human services, and many other sectors.
Not long after new college students have finished choosing the college that is right for them, they are asked to declare an academic major. For some students, this decision is easy, as their majors may have actually influenced their choice of college.
1. Make a career plan. Creating a career plan is one of the ways that students can bolster their chances of success in their chosen majors. When creating a career plan, think about the career that you want to have in the future and consider the academic and professional paths that could lead to that career.
< My Thoughts > “…career that you want to have in the future…”
Many/most persons on the autism spectrum have great difficulty with ‘future’ plans, direction, consequences, etc. The world of ‘autism’ is more about living in the moment, not projecting into the future. The ‘future self’ doesn’t exist. Nor does natural growth process, nor future learning, achievements, nor consequences. Also, understanding how to create a goal and dedicate oneself to following the steps necessary to fulfilling that goal becomes a ‘future’ learning experience within itself.
2. Do your research. Do your research about the job that you are interested in pursuing, as well as any related jobs. Is there one that would be better suited to your abilities and your preferences? Is there someone you can talk to who can tell you more about what an average day looks like at a particular job? While it is possible to switch out of your major once your interests become more apparent, you will save a good deal of time and energy by initially choosing a major that is aligned with your interests and abilities.
< My Thoughts > “…switch out of your major…”
Determining your ‘major’ is not an overnight process. By the time you do your research, the idea of that ‘long-term’ goal may become overwhelming. Colleges usually insist that you pick a ‘major’ so they can enroll you in the program which will result in a degree in the area of your major. Switching out of a major may be very costly, or even impossible; especially if tuition is backed by a grant for that degree. An option may be to enter a program, close to home, which enrolls you in the basic courses to strengthen your abilities and interests. Make certain there will be continuing support for you, in addition to their version of an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP).
3. Brace yourself for challenge. Prepare yourself for the academic challenges that await you in whichever major you choose.
< My Thoughts > “…academic challenges…”
Academia itself can be a challenge. Much depends on how ‘well-schooled’ you are. Have you learned how to learn? Have you learned to produce what the teacher expects, when s/he gives you an assignment? Do you know how to write an acceptable essay? Build success into your higher learning efforts by starting with first developing your strengths.
You may even consider learning an entry-level position, just to see if you feel comfortable and enjoy that particular professional environment. For example, seek a part-time or full-time job as a ‘mail clerk’ or ‘filing clerk’ in the agency where you are considering a career. Explore part-time or full-time positions learning general administrative duties. These duties may include filing, photocopying, sorting mail, entering database information, and other systematic responsibilities.
Another advantage of obtaining a ‘clerk’ position would be to allow for opportunities to learn the basics in a ‘real-world’ situation. With increasing levels of responsibilities, and added duties, you will become more proficient and confident. You may even interest a ‘mentor’ to help guide you on your career path.
REFERENCE:
Staff Writer (2022). Coursework, Internship Opportunities, Campus Life; Spectrum Life Magazine. Retrieved online from – https://www.spectrumlife.org
End of APPENDIX F – Campus Life
UNIT 6 FUTURE CHALLENGES
APPENDIX G - Respite Resources
Easterseals: Many local affiliates of Easterseals provide respite, adult day services, and other supports for individuals of all ages and disabilities. To connect to an Easterseals affiliate in your area, search online.
Eldercare Locator: A public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging connecting you to services for older adults and their families. You can search online.
Benefits.gov: The official benefits website of the U.S. government that informs citizens of benefits they may be eligible for and provides information on how to apply for assistance; search online.
Aging and Disability Resource Centers: If you are looking for information or assistance with long term services and supports for yourself or for a friend or family member, you can locate the Aging and Disability Resource Center (sometimes also known as the No Wrong Door System); search online.
End of APPENDIX G - Respite Resources
APPENDIX G - Respite Resources
Easterseals: Many local affiliates of Easterseals provide respite, adult day services, and other supports for individuals of all ages and disabilities. To connect to an Easterseals affiliate in your area, search online.
Eldercare Locator: A public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging connecting you to services for older adults and their families. You can search online.
Benefits.gov: The official benefits website of the U.S. government that informs citizens of benefits they may be eligible for and provides information on how to apply for assistance; search online.
Aging and Disability Resource Centers: If you are looking for information or assistance with long term services and supports for yourself or for a friend or family member, you can locate the Aging and Disability Resource Center (sometimes also known as the No Wrong Door System); search online.
End of APPENDIX G - Respite Resources
UNIT 6 FUTURE CHALLENGES
APPENDIX H - Additional Resources
Finding Respite Providers or Programs, Respite Funding and Eligibility, Additional Resources – search online.
How do I choose a respite provider or adult day care program?
For guidance in selecting a respite provider or program, read the ABCs of Respite before you get started. Use respite frequently and as early in your caregiving experience as possible, search online.
Where can I find respite providers or programs for a child, adult or older person with a specific condition in my state?
To search for respite in your state, search online.
Where else can I find respite providers or answers to other questions about respite in my state (e.g., how to start up a respite program; licensing or regulatory issues; provider training opportunities)?
For more information on State Respite Coalitions, search –
Respite Funding and Eligibility, search online.
How can I pay for respite services?
1) Family Caregiver Support Program:
Respite is one of the supports offered through the State's Family Caregiver Support Program. Individuals eligible for respite care under this program are:
2) Medicaid Waivers that pay for Respite:
Medicaid waivers provide the largest federal source of funding assistance for respite. Each State develops their own waiver eligibility criteria and conditions for specific populations. Waivers are subject to federal approval. To see if your state has a Medicaid waiver search online for your state website.
Keep in mind that many states maintain waiting lists for Medicaid Waiver services. It is not an automatic entitlement, as is the regular Medicaid State Plan program, although some states may be converting their Medicaid waivers to state plan benefits, search online.
3) Other Possible Public Funding Sources and Eligibility Information:
If you do not qualify for funding under the Family Caregiver Support Program or any of the Medicaid Waivers described above, check this table for other possible state funding sources, search online.
Many states fund respite programs with state or federal funds, either alone or in partnership with private organizations. Such programs are generally designed to serve one or more specific populations, such as the aging; infants and toddlers; adults or children with physical or developmental disabilities; children with special health care needs; children or adults with mental health conditions; kinship care providers; children in state custody or foster parents. Funding for these programs is generally limited and may depend on annual appropriations. Programs may be de-funded or eliminated altogether in times of fiscal crisis. The information obtained here was gathered from the internet, from phone interviews or email communication. Information has been verified to the extent possible, but because of frequent legislative and programmatic changes, you should check the state website or call the state agency to confirm that the information is up to date.
4) If the person you are caring for is a Veteran:
Call the VA Caregiver Support Line, or visit the VA Caregiver Support website, search online.
Additional Resources
Other than respite, what other supports and services are available?
Family Care Navigator, hosted by the Family Caregiver Alliance, is a comprehensive state-by-state searchable data base that provides a list of government and private services and supports for family caregivers and care recipients, search online.
State Self-Direction Programs: If a person with a disability or chronic condition is eligible for Medicaid, they may qualify for financial assistance that can be used to purchase necessary home and community-based services and supports, including payment to the family caregiver or to pay for respite. Such programs are sometimes known as cash & counseling, consumer or self-directed programs, or other names selected by the state. To find state Self-Direction Programs on the Applied Self-Direction, search online.
Family to Family Health Information Center (F2F) and Family Voices: For assistance in finding services and supports for children with special health care needs from other parents and professionals, find your state's F2F center or Family Voices state chapter, search online.
Easterseals: Many local affiliates of Easterseals provide respite, adult day services, and other supports for individuals of all ages and disabilities. To connect to an Easterseals affiliate in your area, search online.
Eldercare Locator: A public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging connecting you to services for older adults and their families, search online.
Benefits.gov: The official benefits website of the U.S. government that informs citizens of benefits they may be eligible for and provides information on how to apply for assistance, search online.
Aging and Disability Resource Centers: If you are looking for information or assistance with long term services and supports for yourself or for a friend or family member, you can locate the Aging and Disability Resource Center (sometimes also known as the No Wrong Door System) nearest you by contacting the Eldercare Locator, search online.
End of APPENDIX H - Additional Resources
APPENDIX H - Additional Resources
Finding Respite Providers or Programs, Respite Funding and Eligibility, Additional Resources – search online.
How do I choose a respite provider or adult day care program?
For guidance in selecting a respite provider or program, read the ABCs of Respite before you get started. Use respite frequently and as early in your caregiving experience as possible, search online.
Where can I find respite providers or programs for a child, adult or older person with a specific condition in my state?
To search for respite in your state, search online.
Where else can I find respite providers or answers to other questions about respite in my state (e.g., how to start up a respite program; licensing or regulatory issues; provider training opportunities)?
For more information on State Respite Coalitions, search –
Respite Funding and Eligibility, search online.
How can I pay for respite services?
1) Family Caregiver Support Program:
Respite is one of the supports offered through the State's Family Caregiver Support Program. Individuals eligible for respite care under this program are:
- Family caregivers providing care for individuals age 60 or older;
- Family caregivers providing care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, regardless of age; or
- Grandparents and other relative caregivers (not parents) 55 years of age and older providing care to children under age 18; or
- Grandparents, parents, and other relative caregivers 55 years of age and older providing care to adults ages 18-59, with disabilities, to whom they are related by blood, marriage, or adoption.
- Tribal Organizations can set a lower age than 60 for members to be considered as elders eligible for services.
2) Medicaid Waivers that pay for Respite:
Medicaid waivers provide the largest federal source of funding assistance for respite. Each State develops their own waiver eligibility criteria and conditions for specific populations. Waivers are subject to federal approval. To see if your state has a Medicaid waiver search online for your state website.
Keep in mind that many states maintain waiting lists for Medicaid Waiver services. It is not an automatic entitlement, as is the regular Medicaid State Plan program, although some states may be converting their Medicaid waivers to state plan benefits, search online.
3) Other Possible Public Funding Sources and Eligibility Information:
If you do not qualify for funding under the Family Caregiver Support Program or any of the Medicaid Waivers described above, check this table for other possible state funding sources, search online.
Many states fund respite programs with state or federal funds, either alone or in partnership with private organizations. Such programs are generally designed to serve one or more specific populations, such as the aging; infants and toddlers; adults or children with physical or developmental disabilities; children with special health care needs; children or adults with mental health conditions; kinship care providers; children in state custody or foster parents. Funding for these programs is generally limited and may depend on annual appropriations. Programs may be de-funded or eliminated altogether in times of fiscal crisis. The information obtained here was gathered from the internet, from phone interviews or email communication. Information has been verified to the extent possible, but because of frequent legislative and programmatic changes, you should check the state website or call the state agency to confirm that the information is up to date.
4) If the person you are caring for is a Veteran:
Call the VA Caregiver Support Line, or visit the VA Caregiver Support website, search online.
Additional Resources
Other than respite, what other supports and services are available?
Family Care Navigator, hosted by the Family Caregiver Alliance, is a comprehensive state-by-state searchable data base that provides a list of government and private services and supports for family caregivers and care recipients, search online.
State Self-Direction Programs: If a person with a disability or chronic condition is eligible for Medicaid, they may qualify for financial assistance that can be used to purchase necessary home and community-based services and supports, including payment to the family caregiver or to pay for respite. Such programs are sometimes known as cash & counseling, consumer or self-directed programs, or other names selected by the state. To find state Self-Direction Programs on the Applied Self-Direction, search online.
Family to Family Health Information Center (F2F) and Family Voices: For assistance in finding services and supports for children with special health care needs from other parents and professionals, find your state's F2F center or Family Voices state chapter, search online.
Easterseals: Many local affiliates of Easterseals provide respite, adult day services, and other supports for individuals of all ages and disabilities. To connect to an Easterseals affiliate in your area, search online.
Eldercare Locator: A public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging connecting you to services for older adults and their families, search online.
Benefits.gov: The official benefits website of the U.S. government that informs citizens of benefits they may be eligible for and provides information on how to apply for assistance, search online.
Aging and Disability Resource Centers: If you are looking for information or assistance with long term services and supports for yourself or for a friend or family member, you can locate the Aging and Disability Resource Center (sometimes also known as the No Wrong Door System) nearest you by contacting the Eldercare Locator, search online.
End of APPENDIX H - Additional Resources
Thank you so much for sharing, commenting, and 'liking' on Facebook!
Regards,
Sara Luker
DISCLAIMER Know Autism – Know Your Child: with < My Thoughts > by Sara Luker
Just to let you know that I, Sara Hayden Luker, have put forth my best efforts in presenting what I have learned about autism, by sharing the stories and studies of those who have gone before us. Any author’s mention of products, services, treatments, and interventions or actions are not to be considered an endorsement, thereof. Know that to some, autism is an ‘unregulated business’. The content of this website material, digital or in any other form does not represent medical advice; nor does it constitute medical suggestions in any way. The material, including any downloadable parts, is for informational and/or educational purposes only. Your download and/or use of any of this material indicates your acceptance of this disclaimer.
This is a Personal Use Electronic Download. By downloading, you hereby agree and acknowledge that you are not acquiring any right, title or interest in, or to, the material; nor any associated copyrights, other than the right to possess, hold and use for personal, non-commercial purposes. Furthermore, you agree that you will: (i) not scan, copy, duplicate, distribute or otherwise reproduce the material(s) to resell, (ii) not use the material(s) for any commercial purposes. By purchasing/downloading you agree to these terms unconditionally. No ‘rights’ are given or transferred.
Regards,
Sara Luker
DISCLAIMER Know Autism – Know Your Child: with < My Thoughts > by Sara Luker
Just to let you know that I, Sara Hayden Luker, have put forth my best efforts in presenting what I have learned about autism, by sharing the stories and studies of those who have gone before us. Any author’s mention of products, services, treatments, and interventions or actions are not to be considered an endorsement, thereof. Know that to some, autism is an ‘unregulated business’. The content of this website material, digital or in any other form does not represent medical advice; nor does it constitute medical suggestions in any way. The material, including any downloadable parts, is for informational and/or educational purposes only. Your download and/or use of any of this material indicates your acceptance of this disclaimer.
This is a Personal Use Electronic Download. By downloading, you hereby agree and acknowledge that you are not acquiring any right, title or interest in, or to, the material; nor any associated copyrights, other than the right to possess, hold and use for personal, non-commercial purposes. Furthermore, you agree that you will: (i) not scan, copy, duplicate, distribute or otherwise reproduce the material(s) to resell, (ii) not use the material(s) for any commercial purposes. By purchasing/downloading you agree to these terms unconditionally. No ‘rights’ are given or transferred.
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