Planning for an autistic child’s adult life is one of the most important, and often most stressful, tasks a parent faces. Group homes and other residential options can provide the structure, support, and community that many autistic adults need to live fulfilling lives.

Types of Residential Options

The term “group home” covers several different models of supported living:

• Traditional group homes: Typically house 4-8 residents with 24/7 staff support. Residents share common spaces and often participate in structured daily activities. Best suited for individuals who need consistent support with daily living tasks.
• Supported living apartments: Individual or shared apartments with staff support available on a scheduled or as-needed basis. Provides more independence while maintaining a safety net. Good for adults who can manage many daily tasks but need help with some.
• Intentional communities: Planned residential communities specifically designed for autistic adults. These often include on-site vocational programs, social activities, and therapeutic services. Examples include Bittersweet Farms in Ohio and the Autism After 21 programs.
• Host family or adult foster care: An autistic adult lives with a trained family in their home. This model provides a family-like environment with individualized support.
• Semi-independent living: The individual lives alone or with a roommate, with periodic check-ins from support staff. Suitable for adults who are largely independent but benefit from someone ensuring bills are paid, appointments are kept, and routines are maintained.

What to Look for in a Group Home

When evaluating residential options, consider these factors:

• Staff qualifications and training: Staff should be trained in autism, positive behavioral support, and crisis intervention. Low staff turnover is a positive indicator of a healthy workplace.
• Person-centered planning: The best programs create individualized plans based on each resident’s strengths, preferences, and goals, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
• Community integration: Look for programs that help residents participate in the broader community through jobs, volunteer work, recreation, and social activities.
• Sensory environment: The physical space should accommodate sensory needs with quiet areas, appropriate lighting, and the ability to personalize individual spaces.
• Communication with families: Regular updates, open visitation policies, and responsiveness to family concerns are essential.
• State licensing and inspection reports: Check your state’s health department or disability services agency for inspection results and any complaints.

Funding and Costs

Group home costs vary widely, from $3,000 to over $10,000 per month depending on the level of support. Common funding sources include:

• Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers: The primary funding source for most group homes. Waitlists can be years long, so apply early.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Federal benefits for disabled adults with limited income and resources.
• State developmental disability services: Each state has its own system; contact your state’s disability services agency for specific programs.
• ABLE accounts: Tax-advantaged savings accounts for individuals with disabilities that do not affect eligibility for means-tested benefits.
• Special needs trusts: Allow families to set aside funds for their child’s future without jeopardizing government benefits eligibility.

Planning Ahead

The transition to adult residential living works best when planning starts early. Consider these steps:

• Begin exploring options when your child is in their mid-teens
• Get on Medicaid waiver waitlists as early as your state allows
• Practice independent living skills during the teen years
• Visit potential residential options with your child to assess fit
• Consult with a special needs attorney about guardianship, trusts, and estate planning

Building Skills for the Future

The more independent living skills your child develops now, the more options they will have as adults. ABA therapy focuses on building practical skills like personal hygiene, meal preparation, money management, and social communication that directly support future independence.

At Treetop, we help families across 11 states prepare their children for the most independent, fulfilling life possible. Contact us to learn about our programs.