Resource Centre

Preparing for Adult Life: Transfer to Adult Services

Young people with disabilities need to be ready for their move to adult health services. When you are an adult, your health care will likely involve a variety of people.  You will have specialists for your health care needs related to your disability.  You will also need a family doctor for routine care. 

Graduates of Bloorview have told us that as adults they still need good medical care.  But they tell us having the skills and knowledge to manage their health care is just as important as they move into the adult world.  Without these life skills, taking care of your health is harder. 

What you need to know:

• Where and when you will transfer to adult services
• How to talk to a doctor on your own
• How to book your own appointments
• How to take more responsibility for your health care
• How to know when you are sick

Where Can You Learn About This?

The LIFEspan Clinic at Bloorview starts to work with youth when they are 16. By talking about the transition regularly, transferring to adult services at age 18 will feel like the natural next step. 

Staff may already have started talking about plans for the future during clinic visits.  Make the most of these opportunities – ask questions and learn about options for adult health services.   You may have received a Timetable or Checklist.  Look through these tools and talk about your future with your family. 

What Happens Next?

Bloorview has partnered with Toronto Rehab Institute, located next door, to create a smooth transition pathway where clients can receive life long care.  This clinic is called the LIFEspan service.  This clinic currently sees clients who have cerebral palsy or acquired brain injury. There are plans to include other conditions in the near future.

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