Lifetime Cost of Care for an Individual with Autism Estimated at $2.4 Million
Charlotte, NC (PRWEB) June 26, 2014 -- “This new study published by Jama Pediatrics on June 9th, 2014, combined with the increased prevalence of Autism, drives home the importance of Special Needs Planning. When we think of needing over $2 million dollars to properly care for our children, the question of ‘How can we make that a reality, and continue to provide for the rest of the family?’ comes with great trepidation and fear,” explains Ryan Platt, Founder of A Special Needs Plan and creator of Special Needs Knowledge.
For many families the definition of Special Needs Planning is to set up a Special Needs Trust; however, it is clear that just having a Special Needs Trust will not provide a lifetime of care, especially when that cost can exceed $2 million. Special Needs Planning must involve a very clear definition of the type of life a family desires for their child, and based upon that defined lifestyle then a proper action plan can be designed. “When a family thinks of Special Needs Planning, it is critical to coordinate the vision they have for their loved one with the proper government benefits, family finances, a life-long tax strategy for both the parents and their child, current and future role of siblings, an adequate legal structure, and the organizations that are involved in their child’s life and the organizations that will be involved in their child’s future,” states Ryan Platt, Founder of A Special Needs Plan.
This study, which was published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics, not only signals to all parents the necessity of planning, but it should also alarm lawmakers to this rising cost epidemic. “In a time when governments at local, state and the federal level are all struggling to balance their budgets, it is concerning that the level of support needed for families with a loved one with special needs continues to rise. In many areas of the country we are already seeing cuts to these necessary government support systems. The combination of continuing cuts and rising needs equals disaster for individuals with special needs and their families. Even more of a reason why families need to do their own planning,” says Ryan Platt, creator of Special Needs Knowledge.
More about A Special Needs Plan:
A Special Needs Plan is a special needs planning firm founded in the belief of L.I.F.E. - Lasting Independence For Everyone™. They are an advisory firm with a mission of helping more than a million families secure that Independence throughout their child’s life.
To learn more, visit aspecialneedsplan.com or specialneedsknowledge.org.
Andrew Spafford, A Special Needs Plan, http://www.aspecialneedsplan.com, +1 (704) 557-9637, [email protected]
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