Navigating Adult Disability Services by Latino Families of Youth with Autism

Compared to the general population, Latino families of youth with autism face unique barriers in accessing adult disability services. Barriers include limited access to resources in Spanish and discrimination. By characterizing specific barriers to advocacy abilities, including knowledge about adult disability services, advocacy skills and comfort, and empowerment, targeted interventions can be developed to improve service access among Latino families. In this study, we examined the responses of 45 Latino caregivers (primarily mothers) before completing a 12-week advocacy program. Results demonstrated significant positive correlations between comfort in advocating for services and their sense of empowerment. Greater proficiency with the English language positively correlated with advocacy skills and comfort. Compared to empowerment within systems (e.g., service delivery systems, the community/political system), participants demonstrated significant strengths in family empowerment. Findings from this study shed light on the importance of designing culturally responsive resources for Latino families.