For more than 20 years, Liz F., a devoted mother in Texas, has cared for her adult son with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With no local family support, the two of them have built a life rooted in routine, resilience, and unconditional love. Liz manages every aspect of his daily care, always putting his safety and comfort first, even as she quietly carries the weight of what the future may bring.

As Liz gets older, new worries have begun to surface — questions about long-term care, placement options, and how insurance might support her son if she is no longer able to provide full-time care. Without additional family or community help, planning for the unknown has been emotionally overwhelming.

When Liz connected with a TCARE Care Specialist, she finally had space to talk through these fears. The specialist offered steady emotional support, active listening, and practical guidance to help her understand her options. Together, they explored local and state resources for long-term care and IDD placement, and discussed steps she could take now to ensure safety and stability for her son down the road.

She was also encouraged to care for herself — to explore support groups, stress-relief strategies, and ways to stay grounded while navigating difficult decisions. Throughout the conversation, the specialist reminded Liz that proactive planning does not mean letting go of her son; it means preparing for a future where he continues to be supported, safe, and understood.

By the end of their time together, Liz reported feeling relieved and more confident about the road ahead. The fear she had been carrying alone felt lighter, replaced with hope and the reassurance that she doesn’t have to face the planning process by herself.

For Liz, the conversation was more than information — it was a reminder that her dedication has always mattered, and that support exists for both her and her son as they look toward the future.

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