If you’re a parent or caregiver of an adult with a developmental disability, you’ve probably asked yourself:
“Will my child ever be independent?”
“Who will help them when I can’t?”
“How can I prepare them for work, or life on their own?”
These are hard questions. You are not alone in asking them.
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to recognize the strengths and challenges of people with developmental disabilities. This year’s theme is “We’re Here All Year,” and at LAHC, we take that seriously.
We’re here every day, walking beside families like yours—helping adults build life skills, prepare for jobs, and find their own path toward independence.
What do developmental disabilities in adults look like?
A developmental disability is a condition that begins in childhood and affects how someone learns, communicates, moves, or behaves. These conditions don’t go away with age—but with support, many young adults can gain new skills, find jobs, and become more independent.
The 9 most common developmental disabilities
Below is a list of the most common developmental disabilities, starting with the ones that affect the most people:
1. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can make it difficult to focus, follow instructions, manage time, or stay organized.
Adults with ADHD might struggle with long tasks, deadlines, or sitting still for long periods. In a job setting, they may need reminders, support with structure, or flexible routines.
2. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may affect how a person communicates, processes change, or handles social situations.
Autistic adults might find it hard to read social cues or handle noisy or unpredictable environments. They often do well in jobs that are structured, clear, and aligned with their interests and strengths.
3. Learning disabilities include issues with reading (dyslexia), writing (dysgraphia), or math (dyscalculia).
These disabilities can make it hard to complete written applications, follow written instructions, or manage money. Adults with learning disabilities often succeed in hands-on roles with verbal guidance and visual aids.
4. Speech and language disorders may cause difficulty speaking clearly, understanding language quickly, or communicating with others.
This can make conversations with coworkers or customers more difficult. Many people with speech challenges thrive in roles that are task-focused and do not require a lot of verbal communication.
5. Intellectual disability can affect a person’s ability to learn new tasks quickly, solve problems, or make decisions independently.
However, many adults with intellectual disabilities can succeed in jobs that offer step-by-step instruction, on-the-job training, and a consistent routine.
6. Cerebral palsy affects movement and coordination. Adults with cerebral palsy may have trouble with fine motor skills or physical tasks, depending on how the condition affects their body.
With accommodations or assistive tools, they can perform well in jobs that match their physical abilities.
7. Down syndrome often includes mild to moderate intellectual disability. Adults with Down syndrome may need extra time to learn new routines, but many are capable, dependable, and enjoy working.
They often succeed in supportive work environments, especially in roles that involve interaction, structure, and repetition.
8. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) can cause challenges with memory, focus, and decision-making.
Adults with FASDs might need help managing tasks, following instructions, or controlling emotions under stress. With consistency, coaching, and clear expectations, they can enjoy contributing to the workplace.
9. Developmental coordination disorder (DCD), also called dyspraxia, affects motor coordination.
Adults with DCD may struggle with tasks that require physical balance, fine hand movement, or handwriting. They can do well in roles that don’t require complex motor skills or with extra time and support.
How LAHC helps young adults with developmental disabilities
At LAHC, we know that every young adult’s path is different, especially for those living with a developmental disability.
That’s why we offer several programs to support both young adults and the families who care for them. Our services are community-based, culturally sensitive, and available right here in Dearborn and Southeast Michigan.
Pathways – Beyond Horizons classes: building practical life skills
For many young adults with developmental disabilities, the move into adulthood can feel overwhelming. Everyday things like making friends, taking the bus, or speaking up in a group might seem small to others—but they’re big steps.
That’s why LAHC created the Pathways – Beyond Horizons Program.
In small group settings, participants build confidence and communication through structured activities focused on real-life skills.
Across several six-week series, they learn how to make friends, manage time and money, stay safe online and at home, and express themselves through art, music, and movement. Each series promotes social inclusion, emotional growth, and functional independence using therapeutic and evidence-based methods.
WayneLINC workforce development classes: preparing for real jobs, real futures
Getting a job is one of the biggest steps toward independence—but it doesn’t come easy for everyone. For adults with developmental disabilities, things like writing a resume, answering interview questions, or knowing how to act on the job can be major challenges.
Through our Workforce Development Program, we offer career coaching to help participants figure out what kind of job fits their skills and interests. Then, we support them through job readiness workshops that cover everything from how to dress for work to how to handle a tough day on the job.
We also help with real-life barriers. Need help finding childcare before a job interview? We assist with that. Don’t have a license? We help with legal support, including expungement services and license reinstatement.
Digital literacy and ESL classes: reading and writing in today’s world
Today, almost every job and daily task requires some level of comfort with technology. That’s why LAHC offers Digital Literacy classes to help young adults build confidence using computers, smartphones, email, and the internet.
For many families in our Dearborn community, English is not their first language. We also offer English as a Second Language (ESL) classes for people to improve their reading, writing, and speaking skills.
Blooming Minds mental health and peer support services: a safe space to feel understood
Living with a developmental disability can sometimes be lonely or stressful—especially during big life transitions. That’s why LAHC created Blooming Minds, a peer-led mental health program designed to give young adults a space to talk, share, and feel heard.
These small group sessions focus on emotional wellness and personal growth. Participants talk about real struggles—like anxiety, low self-esteem, or feeling isolated. But they also share victories and support one another. It’s a place where they’re not judged, rushed, or made to feel “less than.”
They also learn how to manage stress in healthy ways, speak up for themselves, and build leadership skills. The friendships and trust built in these groups often become a key part of their growth.
Get in touch with LAHC’s support services
If you’re looking for support for developmental disabilities in adults, LAHC is here to help. Call us at (313) 846-8480 or follow. Follow us on Facebook to stay updated on programs, events, and resources for your family.
- Pathways – Beyond Horizons Program
- Workforce Development
- Digital Literacy & ESL
- Blooming Minds – Mental Health Support
If you want to support LAHC’s mission and the services we offer adults with disabilities, learn how you can help as a volunteer or through a donation.