Considerations for the Military Child with Special Needs Transitioning to Adulthood

Transition is a dynamic lifelong process that seeks to meet individual needs as a person with disabilities moves from childhood to adulthood. Per laws in most states, once an individual becomes 18 years of age that person is considered an adult regardless of the level of his or her disability. Initiating planning for adult living activities and financial support is crucial while the child is still a minor. This article discusses a strategy developed by the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth Neurodevelopmental Pediatric Department to address transition for military children with disabilities and other special needs. It provides an overview of unique military considerations, including: continuing TRICARE benefits, Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) eligibility after age 18, and respite benefits through Extended Health Care Option (ECHO). It discusses legal, financial, academic/lifestyle, community resources, and self-advocacy considerations. It concludes with lessons learned from information obtained from special needs families and unprecedented quarterly transition forums. (Contains 12 online resources.)