Taking Action

Preparing for adult developmental services takes time. Families who start early often feel more confident and avoid many of the delays that come from missing documents or waiting until the last minute.

If your child is approaching adulthood, there are several steps you can take now to prepare for the transition.

Organize Your Documents

One of the most common reasons applications are delayed is missing or incomplete documentation.

Before you contact Developmental Services Ontario (DSO), gather the information you already have.

This may include:

• Proof of age
• Proof of Ontario residency
• Psychological assessments
• Medical reports
• School records
• Individual Education Plans (IEPs)
• Reports that describe current support needs

If your psychological assessment is several years old or does not clearly meet DSO requirements, you may need an updated assessment.

Having your documents organized before you begin can save time and reduce unnecessary stress.

Learn the Eligibility Requirements

You can begin the DSO eligibility process when a young person is 16 years old, even though most adult services begin at age 18.

DSO will review your documentation to determine whether the individual meets Ontario’s eligibility requirements for adult developmental services.

Understanding the requirements before you apply helps you prepare the right information from the beginning.

Prepare for the Application Process

The DSO application process involves more than submitting documents.

You will be asked questions about your family member’s daily life, support needs, and current level of independence.

Before your first conversation, spend some time thinking about:

• Daily routines
• Personal care needs
• Communication
• Safety
• Community participation
• Behavioural support needs
• Areas where additional support would improve quality of life

Giving clear and accurate information helps ensure your application reflects your family’s current situation.

Plan for the Next Stage

If your family member is found eligible, there may be additional assessments and planning before services become available.

Adult services are based on eligibility, assessed needs, available resources, and program capacity.

Because wait times can vary, many families begin planning as early as possible.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Families often tell us they wish they had started sooner.

Some of the most common mistakes include:

• Waiting until age 18 to begin planning.
• Missing important documentation.
• Assuming services begin automatically.
• Underestimating how long the process can take.
• Forgetting to update DSO when circumstances change.

Keeping your information current helps ensure your file reflects your family’s needs.

How CareVia Support Can Help

Preparing for adult developmental services can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re navigating the system for the first time.

At CareVia Support, we help families prepare for every stage of the process.

We can help you:

• Understand DSO requirements.
• Organize important documentation.
• Learn about Passport funding.
• Explore available support services.
• Develop a person-centred support plan.
• Plan for greater independence and community participation.

While DSO determines eligibility and government agencies manage funding decisions, CareVia Support helps families understand the process, prepare with confidence, and make informed decisions about future supports.

Ready to Start Planning?

Preparing early gives your family more time to organize documents, understand available services, and plan for adulthood with confidence.

Book a free Family Consultation today and let CareVia Support help you prepare for the next stage of your loved one’s journey.