If you are a youth with a disability, your supports change when you turn 18. Find out about the supports and services you can get as an adult.
Try to get your disability documented before you turn 18. That means it has been diagnosed and recorded. You may qualify for programs and supports. To get this done:
- See a doctor
- Contact one of the support agencies listed in this article
Some agencies may be able to help you get other support as you turn 18.
If you’ve been in care of children’s services
You may be able to get support and resources:
- Call your caseworker.
- Don’t remember your caseworker’s name? Call the office where you used to go.
- Live in a different town or region? Find your local office.
If you need fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) resources
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) describes a range of issues. These may include physical birth defects and health problems. Contact a support agency that can help you:
- Government of Alberta FASD page
FASD information and province-wide programs and services - Calgary Fetal Alcohol Network
Resources and advocacy
Call 403-681-2673 - Edmonton and Area Fetal Alcohol Network
Resources and advocacy
Call 780-919-0354 - FASD Service Networks
Contact information for your local centre
If you need resources for persons with developmental disabilities
A developmental disability begins in childhood. It limits your ability to think and adapt to situations. The most common forms include Down’s syndrome, cerebral palsy, FASD and autism. If this affects you, contact a support agency that can help:
- Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD)
Government of Alberta programs and services - Inclusion Alberta
Advocacy and support for PDD
Call 1-800-252-7556
If you are severely handicapped
Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) offers help to adults with disabilities. The disability must be permanent and limit your ability to earn a living.
If you’ve been in care, you may be able to get support and resources that will help you as you become an adult. Now is a good time to ask your caseworker.
Find more resources
Check out:
- Office of the Advocate for Persons with Disabilities
Help finding and getting access to supports and services available to children, youth, and adults with disabilities - PDD - Resources
Government of Alberta programs and services - Persons with Disabilities: Career, Learning and Work
Resources for learners and job seekers