What is Autism: Coming of Age

Did you know over the next 10 to 15 years, an estimated 800,000 children with autism will age out of their school systems? Nearly three quarters of these families are worried about their child’s financial future, but most have done little to plan for when their child with autism becomes an adult. That’s why today, on behalf of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), we encourage you to join this mission to get the word out that help is available for families with children with special needs!

You can learn more about MassMutual and ways it’s helping families plan for the future by visiting www.massmutual.com/autism.  Also be sure to check out MassMutual on Facebook www.Facebook.com/MassMutual for daily tips and articles.

What is Autism: Coming of Age?

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are some of the most complex disabilities that families can face. This documentary is, in part, a follow-up to groundbreaking research from the December 2008 “Easter Seals Living with Autism” study, also co-sponsored by MassMutual, that examined the hopes, fears and challenges of parents raising children with autism.

That study, conducted by Harris Interactive, one of the leading consumer research companies in the U.S., revealed the top concerns of families living with autism. These include:

- Independence
- Financial well-being
- Quality of life
- Employment
- Housing needs
- Education
- Health
- The child’s longevity