FASD continues throughout life. Short stature and small head size may remain. However, facial features and growth deficiency may be less visible. Limited reasoning and judgment abilities persist. Mental illness is common and includes depression, withdrawal, isolation and unpredictable behavior. Alcohol and drug abuse may add to problems.

Some young adults with FASD continue to need supervision and support. Many will have problems with employment. They will appear to be capable, but may not have the ability to perform a given task. They may be age 21 physically, yet have the ability of a 12 year old. Help may be needed to perform household tasks successfully. The simple tasks of daily living may need to be taught. Routines which do not vary day to day are best. Using lists is often helpful.

Young adults with FASD may not be able to manage money or parent the children they have. Independent living may not be possible. Special living arrangements may be needed which provide supervision, support and guidance. Home health aides may be helpful. See the General Resources section of this booklet for more information.

Stress frequently increases with the age of the young adult. Coping may be difficult. Often, the entire family needs support and understanding from others. Support groups may be helpful. See the Resources section of this booklet for more information.

Health Care

Young adults with FASD should have regular health visits. Both medical and psychosocial aspects of health should be addressed. Visits should also address the prevention of risky behaviors. Topics or health issues may include:

• A discussion of health prevention topics such as:

• Use of tobacco products and use and abuse of alcohol or other drugs
• Severe or recurrent depression and suicide attempts
• Physical, sexual and emotional abuse
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Infectious diseases
• Learning problems

• A discussion of health promotion topics such as:

• Healthy eating habits, proper nutrition and prevention of eating disorders or obesity
• Safety and injury prevention
• Physical fitness
• parent’s ability to respond to health needs of their young adult

• A discussion of mental health issues such as:

• Anger and violence management
• Ruling out or identifying other diagnoses such as personality disorders and depression
• Self-esteem
• Emotional abuse

• A discussion of sexual health topics such as:

• Birth control
• Victimizing others and becoming victims
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
• Inappropriate sexual behavior

• Young adults who have been seeing a pediatrician often change doctors during their late teens. The pediatrician can recommend a family practitioner or an internist for continued care.
• Health services should meet the needs of the individual young adult. Information shared with health providers is personal and confidential.
• Health care for young adults with FASD may be difficult for health providers and professionals. Due to memory gaps, young adults with FASD may not be able to provide accurate information. They may be unable to report symptoms or take medications accurately and regularly.
• Young adults who plan to move away from home may need assistance to find new health providers and professionals. Referrals may be needed.
• When moving away from home or finding a job, many young adults find they are no longer covered by their parent’s health insurance. Many policies only cover dependents who are full-time students. Discuss health care coverage with the insurance company. You may also want to talk with your social worker, public health nurse or doctor. Help young adults learn details of their policies. If they do not have health insurance, help them find low cost coverage.

• Young adults need to understand their condition. They may need encouragement to ask questions. They should discuss any concerns with their health providers or professionals.
• Encourage your young adult to be as independent in activities as possible.
• Young adults need to understand how FASD may affect their sexual and reproductive lives. Provide sexually active young adults with information to protect them from pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
• Encourage your young adult to be an advocate for him or herself. See the Family Support and Services section of this booklet for more information.

• Young adults focus on life goals and careers. Assistance may be needed in planning if they are unsure of their goals. Schools and colleges offer career counseling.
• Many individuals with FASD may not be able to maintain a job or live independently. They may also need help managing money.
• Academic adjustments may be needed for post-secondary students. This may include the use of assistive technology or support staff. Academic requirements may be modified and courses may be conducted differently. To provide the best opportunities for success, inform the school about your young adult’s special needs.
• Special planning may be needed for medical care for young adults who go away to school. Contact the school for assistance. Make plans for illnesses or emergencies. Some care can be obtained while at home on breaks.
• Some young adults with FASD have difficulty obtaining further education and training. They may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation services. The Minnesota Department of Economic Security, Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS), can help young adults with disabilities. See the General Resources section of this booklet for more information.
• Extra planning may be needed to develop successful employment opportunities. Different expectations for job performance may also be needed. A structured environment and support is usually helpful. Employers may be willing to hire a young adult with FASD as a disabled person. Job training programs and opportunities may also be available.
• The American with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination in employment practices against a qualified person with a disability. This is a person who can perform the "essential functions" of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Back to top