Developing an Autism-Related Future Planning Program for Adult Siblings
Webinar: March 19, 2019
4:00 - 5:00 p.m. EST
Developing an Autism-Related Future Planning Program for Adult Siblings
Content:
This presentation will provide the rationale for increasing siblings’ involvement in working with their families and brother or sister on the autism spectrum to plan for the future. We will (1) review what is known about future planning programs and resources, and (2) present qualitative data characterizing adult siblings’ potential for and barriers to involvement in future planning, including the perspectives of English- and Spanish-speaking adults on the autism spectrum, siblings, and service providers. Findings are being applied to the development of a community-based, sibling-focused future planning program that addresses these barriers by adopting a telehealth approach, teaching skills relevant to future planning (e.g., communication and problem-solving), and providing instruction on navigating complex autism-related service systems. Ultimately, greater sibling involvement may promote independence and functioning in adults on the autism spectrum through more seamless continuity of care across the life course.
Presenters:
Katie Keiling Arnold, MS, University of Illinois at Chicago
Gael Orsmond, PhD, Boston University
Kristin Long, PhD, Boston University
Monica Gordillo, MA, Boston University
This webinar is jointly sponsored by AAIDD and the Sibling Leadership Network.