If Something Happens to Me: A Practical Survival & Care Planning Guide for Autism Parents & Caregivers

This guide was created for autism parents who want to make sure their child is protected if something happens to them.

Planning ahead can feel overwhelming, emotional, and confusing — especially when you’re trying to navigate guardianship, benefits, and care decisions.

This guide walks you through the most important steps to take so that no one is left guessing if you’re no longer able to speak for your child.

Inside this guide, you’ll learn:

• How to choose and document a guardian

• What documents matter most

• How SSI and services continue

• What caregivers need to know

• What to do if your child is already 18+

• How to keep care and benefits stable

This is a practical, parent-friendly survival guide — not a legal textbook.

It’s designed to give you clarity, confidence, and a plan someone else can follow.