Resources for Transition-Aged Youth and Young Adults
The purpose of this study was to investigate the needs of families with youth with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) related to COVID, particularly social isolation that may have occurred due to the restrictions related to the pandemic.
We wanted to understand what needs youth, young adults, and/or their family experienced during and following the pandemic, barriers to accessing these services, and what is needed to increase access to supports, services, and resources to minimize the negative consequences of social isolation.
The findings showed that parents and/or caregivers of youth and young adults (YYA) with I/DD with and without autism expressed unmet needs and frustrations during and after COVID in most aspects of their YYA’s lives, including difficulties accessing needed educational, therapeutic, medical, and social support. Some families also reported some positive outcomes with families being able to spend more time with their loved ones and obtaining a better understanding or some to their needs and providing support that enhanced their relationships.
Results from the findings are presented in the following infographics developed in June 2025:
- Caring for Youth and Young Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Infographic
- Providing Care for Youth and Young Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Infographic