Using Design Experiment Processes to Adjust Money Habits of Adults with Disabilities

As more adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities move into inclusive settings in the community, it is essential to address budgeting and finance issues to avoid real concerns of financial exploitation. Adults with intellectual and developmental disability often comprise the “working poor”, even if they are among the 20% who are fortunate enough to have access to community-based, paid employment at above minimum wage. Those fortunate enough to be placed on government assistance (1 in 4 are still waiting for funded services) soon realize that this benefit comes with restrictions on their income and savings. These restrictions impact work options, pay range, and benefits. Each person’s budget leaves little for saving and discretionary spending. Our present situation of rising inflation compounds these already significant concerns.