Your Role in Planning & Why It Matters
Do you care about someone with an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD)? Maybe they live with aging parents, are facing a big life change, or aren’t getting the services they need. You might be wondering if you should step in and how to start helping. Many families struggle to talk about the future, but planning early—before a crisis—can give everyone peace of mind.
Future planning is an ongoing process that helps ensure a person with disabilities has the support, stability, and choices they need throughout life. As someone who cares about this family, you can be important in starting these conversations and helping guide the planning process. By showing you care and offering specific help, you can be a steady, trusted part of their support network.
Ways You Can Help With Future Planning
Good planning centers the person with disabilities and not just their parents or caregivers. Every person has their own goals, preferences, and dreams. Whether you’re offering practical help or just starting the conversation, here are a few ways to support the person and their family.
Start the Conversation
Open the door to future planning by asking thoughtful, supportive questions. You don’t need to have all the answers. Simply being willing to talk can help others feel less alone.
Ask About Hopes & Needs
Talk about what the person and their family want for the future. What are their goals? What kind of help will be needed to reach them?
Offer Specific Help
Let the family know exactly how you’re willing to help. That might mean attending appointments, helping make decisions, or checking in regularly. Every offer of support counts.
Access Disability Resources
Contact your local chapter of The Arc or other disability support organizations. Many offer tools, workshops, and state-specific resources to help with planning.
Including Social Connections in Future Plans
Learn how you can help create a future plan that includes opportunities to participate in recreational activities and develop social connections.
Ready for your next step?
Let’s Build a Future Plan
A written future plan—sometimes called a letter of intent—goes beyond legal and financial documents. It shares the person with IDD’s wishes and daily routines, so the people who help them know how to provide support and can help make decisions with confidence.
A future plan can guide health care, finances, and lifestyle choices. It also provides information about important people, including caregivers, support workers, and medical professionals.