Future Planning

Future Planning is creating a guide for a person with an intellectual or developmental disability (I/DD) to lead a good life as independently as possible. A plan is important throughout all stages of life and especially in the future after the parent or caregiver is no longer able to provide support.

A person-centered future plan should reflect the wishes of the person with I/DD, as well as his or her parents, siblings, extended family members and friends, and other important people in his or her life. The plan should include information about all aspects of a person’s life including:

• Daily routines, needs and supports
• Living arrangements
• Finances, including the family and person’s public benefits, assets, incomes, trusts, insurance policies
• Doctors’ contact information and information about the person’s medical history (including any medications and food allergies)
• Decision-making support
• Education history
• Details about the person’s employment, leisure activities, religious beliefs, behaviors, interests, friendships, and other important relationships