Turning 18 is a milestone—but for families raising children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), it also marks an important legal and life transition.

In this episode of the Hope Talks Podcast, Julie Cadman, co-founder of Healing Complex Kids, sits down with Christie Kay and Dawn Calnen from The Arc of Oakland County to unpack one of the biggest questions families face:

What happens when my child turns 18?

We walk through:
✔️ What Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (IDD) really mean
✔️ The difference between Guardianship and Supported Decision-Making
✔️ How Medicaid eligibility shifts at age 18
✔️ Accessing medical records (HIPAA) and understanding legal rights
✔️ Teaching life skills and building self-advocacy
✔️ Why early documentation and planning are essential
✔️ A real-life story of reclaiming independence

This conversation is both practical and empowering. Because turning 18 is not a crisis—it’s a transition. And with the right support, it can be a step toward greater independence, dignity, and confidence.

If you're navigating special needs transition planning, adult disability services, or trying to decide between guardianship and supported decision-making, this episode offers clarity, guidance, and hope.

You don’t have to know everything. You just need to know your options—and know that support is available.