Future planning is the process of making a plan for the future that enables an individual with an intellectual or developmental disability (I/DD) to live as independently and successfully as possible. It is important to have a plan in place during all stages of life, but especially for the time when the parent or caregiver will no longer be able to provide support.
A person-centered future plan should consider the preferences of the individual with intellectual or developmental impairment, as well as those of his or her parents, siblings, extended family and friends, and any other relevant people in the individual's life. The plan should include the following categories of information concerning the individual's whole life:
Typical tasks, needs, and assistance sources

Living arrangements
This comprises public benefits, assets, incomes, trusts, and insurance policies.
The individual's medical history as well as the names and contact information of their physicians (including any medications and food allergies)
Facilitation of decision-making
Details on the individual's employment, leisure activities, religious beliefs, habits, interests, friendships, and other relevant relationships, as well as information about the individual's education.
Before beginning your preparations, you should first consider the following question. What would a person need to maintain his or her daily routine through a significant life transition? The next phase is to create a plan for the individual's life following the transformation. It is essential to use a collaborative approach while discussing and developing the plan, and it is equally critical to constantly prioritize the person with intellectual and developmental disabilities' interests, preferences, and talents.
Who is a member of the group that is preparing for the future?
Ask the person with intellectual and/or developmental disability (I/DD) which team members he or she would prefer. Members of the team may include the individual with I/DD, parents, siblings, other family members, friends, legal and financial professionals, and other relevant persons in the individual's life. It's likely that some of these people reside in another state, but it's crucial that you include them if they have had a big effect on your life. This team works to assess the individual's necessary supports and then takes action to implement them.
Future planning is something that can and should be done.
Future preparation is a crucial task for all families. The process of contemplating one's future course may be difficult and unpleasant. Individuals identified with intellectual and developmental impairments are able to leave their parents' house with greater ease if they have a specific plan for the future (IDD).
Some families may assume that planning is not an option because they do not have enough money to provide for an adult child with intellectual or developmental disability (I/DD) or because they cannot afford a lawyer or estate planner. This is not at all the case bing maps. There are several processes involved in the planning process, many of which have nothing to do with finances. In addition, it is crucial for low-income families to educate themselves on the public assistance possibilities that may be available to them and to enroll an eligible family member in the relevant program.