Per their press release:
Press Release
Plainsboro, NJ — Thanks to improved healthcare and a greater understanding of their needs, individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities are living longer. However, with just 2 percent of autism research focused on seniorhood, many families are left facing an uncertain future as their loved one ages.
In an effort to provide stability and security for both older participants and their families, Eden Autism is proud to announce the opening of Schalks Crossing, Eden’s day center for adults who are transitioning to retirement age, are ready for retirement, or have significant medical needs.
Located in the heart of Plainsboro, Schalks Crossing will open in July and occupy premium placement in Plainsboro Plaza, home to over 35 shops and restaurants within walking distance for participants and staff.
“Children and young adults come to mind when many people think of individuals with autism. Not only do those individuals become adults, but they become senior citizens with all of the challenges that go along with aging — on top of those associated with their autism diagnosis,” said Eden Autism President and CEO Michael Decker. “Next year is our 45th year of service and many of the individuals we began supporting as children are now reaching retirement. We remain committed to them and their families as they reach yet another milestone.”
Unlike Eden’s other adult service programs that primarily focus on employment skills, Schalks Crossing will help participants transition to retirement. As individuals age out of the workforce, employment is no longer at the forefront of their daily routine. The new day center will help older participants learn skills that will keep them engaged and fulfilled long after they stop working.
Increased emphasis on activities of daily living, recreation and leisure, participation in community activities, and volunteerism will be the programmatic focus.
“With the opening of Schalks Crossing, we are one of the first organizations in the field to address what the need is for seniorhood,” said Rachel Tait, Chief Program Officer. “We hope the model we develop will be used by other organizations to help all families feel more at ease as their loved one ages.”
To help celebrate our most recent effort to improve the lives of individuals with autism, we will host a ribbon cutting Thursday, Aug. 15 at 10 a.m. Please join us in recognition of this important milestone in Eden’s mission to improve the lives of people with autism, one individual at a time, one family at a time, one community at a time.
For more information about Schalks Crossing, visit edenautism.org/schalks-
