Mark is an autistic adult who resides in a Medicaid-funded residential program in upstate New York. Before his parents passed away, his mother established a Special Needs Trust for him, which held in excess of $2 million, with the … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: Apps for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Dear Saki and Alley, My daughter with ASD often gets frustrated when playing on the iPad, because some of the apps are too fast paced, or she doesn't understand them. Do you know of any apps that someone with ASD could … [Read more...]
He’s Disabled But Has Full Mental Capacity- Why Can’t He Initiate His Own Trust?
Q1.My friend, Ken, is physically disabled, but has full mental capacity. His parents and grandparents are no longer around. He would like to initiate a Special Needs Trust for himself, since he wants to ensure that he is protected … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: Pooled Special Needs Trusts
Dear Commander Bun Bun, I am considering a pooled special needs trust (managed by a non-profit organization) for my daughter, Shannon, who is intellectually disabled. What are some of the benefits and … [Read more...]
Can Someone Recover from Autism?
When Tyler was one, his parents began to notice certain behaviors that seemed atypical. He didn't make eye contact or wave hello or goodbye, and he often seemed to be in his own world. As a toddler, he began lining up his toys, … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: Holiday Tips for Parents of a Special Needs Child
Dear Saki and Alley, I recently got remarried and we are going to my sister’s house for the holidays. My new stepson, Sean, is autistic and doesn’t do well with new places or changes to his routine. Do you have any suggestions … [Read more...]
A New Act to Help Special Needs Families
Q. My 9-year-old daughter, Noelle, is intellectually disabled. The costs for her therapy and assistive technology are quite high, and we are in the process of applying for government assistance (SSI). Despite our struggles … [Read more...]
Special Programs for Special Needs
Earlier this year, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) announced an alarming statistic regarding the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), stating that is now affects 1 in 68 children (a 30% increase from 1 … [Read more...]
Financial Security for a Special Needs Child
Q. Our 11-year-old son, Nathan, has autism and will likely need care for the rest of his life. This has put quite an emotional and financial strain on my husband and me. My parents, who are wealthy, are willing to help, but we've … [Read more...]
Guardianship Revisited: a Serial 911-Caller and a Bigamist
A “guardian” of an adult is a person appointed by the court who is responsible for the personal affairs of an incapacitated adult, including responsibility for making decisions regarding the adult’s support, care, health, safety, … [Read more...]