Roughly half of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders leave their family home by their mid-30s and transition to either independent or supported living, a study in Autism has found.Why It’s Relevant
For many individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, finding long-term housing outside the family home is both a priority and a challenge. As these individuals age, understanding the timing of their residential transitions may be crucial to indicate when, for whom, and what types of transition support are needed.
By the Numbers
- Researchers analyzed data from 134 adults diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood—primarily autism—52% of whom also had intellectual disabilities. Data were collected from participants via in-person assessments and mailed questionnaires between 1994 and 2025.
- Among all participants, 69% of those without intellectual disabilities had moved out of the family home by their mid-30s, compared with 37% of participants with intellectual disabilities.
- Those with intellectual disabilities moved predominantly to supported living environments such as group homes or residential settings with formal supports, while those without intellectual disabilities moved primarily to live independently or with roommates, non-caregiving family, or partners.
- The mean ages for the big move were 33 and 27 years for those with and without intellectual disabilities, respectively.
- Among people without intellectual disabilities, those with greater autistic behaviors tended to move later in adulthood. Among people with intellectual disabilities, those with higher family income and those with more irritability (a measure of behavioral difficulties) were more likely to move out earlier, especially around ages 18 to 22.
The Other Side
Nearly 80% of participants were White and non-Hispanic, and there were few female participants. Therefore, the study results are not generalizable to people of other races or ethnicities or to women.
Takeaway Message
“Advocacy efforts are needed to ensure all families have the resources to support appropriate housing arrangements and [long-term services and supports] for their loved ones at the times they deem important, regardless of background, ability, or personal resources,” the researchers wrote.
Related Information
Source
Hannah Singer, et al. The big move: predictors of residential status and age at leaving the family home in adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Autism. Published online October 25, 2026. doi:10.1177/1362361326149060
(Image: Getty Images/iStock/AJ_Watt)
