Humberto Cruz writes a syndicated column, “The Savings Game,” that appears in the Arizona Daily Star each Wednesday. Today’s column, “Careful planning key to providing care for disabled child” is important for parents who are concerned about the financial future of their children with autism.

Children with autism can expect to live a normal lifespan if they don’t succumb to those dangers they don’t perceive as dangers (swimming pools, traffic, etc). It is unlikely that many parents can save enough for their own retirement and enough to sustain their disabled child for the rest of his life after the parents are gone.

This is particularly true when they are spending more for therapy and treatment that may not be covered by insurance, although this has changed recently in Arizona. It is also common for one parent to leave the workforce to provide the higher level of care the disabled child needs. Lower earnings, less savings.

Therefore, an adult with autism who doesn’t function well enough to be completely independent will probably need some public assistance. This will most likely be in the form of Supplemental Security Income and/or Medicaid – AHCCCS in Arizona.

Because these forms of assistance require that the person receiving them own very little in the way of property or assets, parents shouldn’t just leave what’s left of their estate to their autistic child in their will.

Cruz addresses this in the article and offers advice and resources. It’s something parents must think about before it’s too late.