Twenty Two
When I think of the number 22, I obviously think of the Taylor Swift song first and I’m sure most people do the same. Unfortunately, the song isn’t the only thing that reminds me of the number 22. For me, this number isn’t as exciting as it seems in the iconic pop hit- am I making it obvious I’m a huge Taylor Swift fan?
Most special needs schools allow their students to continue their education up until the age of twenty two. At this age, typical young adults go to college, get degrees, start their careers, and so on. For myself and a lot of others, twenty two is the beginning of our adulthood, and we have so much life and exploration to look forward to. For family’s with a child on the spectrum, twenty two is a frightening age. It is the age where the big question mark appears. What do we do with this child when educational services are finished?
It is terrifying to think of the possible outcomes of what happens after school is over and Nick has to step into adulthood. There are lots of day programs available for autistic adults that allow them a place to spend their days independently and learn life skills. Whether it be adult day time programs, or even full time living facilities, there are definitely options available. However, there is so much to consider with every route Nick could possibly follow.
As much as we hate to admit it: People can be evil. There are people in this world who take on jobs they are not fit for, just to get by. What if Nick lived in a facility where the people who we are supposed to put our trust in, take advantage of Nick? He would never be able to tell us if something bad happened to him because he is unable to vocalize his feelings. What if his caregiver at a living facility forgets to give him his medication? What if they don’t prompt him to eat, shower, or brush his teeth? These tasks seem so simple to us because we have the proper motor skills to accomplish them on our own. A lot of people with autism need to be told to complete such basic skills, and they sometimes won’t do so without a watchful eye making sure that they do.
It is hard to gauge what the appropriate decision for a child’s future is when they can't make the decision for themselves, or tell you directly what is best for them. My family and I have heard both horror stories, and heartwarming ones about the realities of autistic adults living away from their families. Nick and I have two more years until we are twenty two. I hope once we get there, Nick is in a safe environment, and we are both able to explore and keep looking forward to the lives ahead of us.
