Transitioning spina bifida care from pediatric to adult services requires careful planning, skill-building, and a strong support system.
At BrightStar Care, we understand that successful transitions don’t just happen; they’re built on early preparation, teamwork with healthcare providers, and a deep commitment to helping every individual thrive.
Without careful planning, families can face unnecessary stress, gaps in care, and missed opportunities to develop the skills needed for a more independent and fulfilling life. That’s why BrightStar Care is committed to supporting children, teens, and adults with spina bifida through every stage of their journey.
At BrightStar Care of Columbus, our compassionate team provides personalized in-home care and skilled medical staffing to ease the transition process. We work closely with families to ensure continuity of care, build essential self-care skills, and create a sense of calm and confidence during what can often feel like an overwhelming time.
Our clients’ experiences speak volumes about the value of proactive, personalized support. Mackenzie Miller shared,
“I’ve had a very good experience so far. They’ve been helpful and communicative through some bad experiences with nurses and helped me find a fantastic nurse that we love. Of all the agencies I contacted initially, BrightStar was the only agency that was actually proactive about staffing my son’s case! I definitely recommend!”
Similarly, Jeremiah Snell expressed gratitude for the peace of mind our caregivers provide, saying,
“BrightStar has been great to my daughter. I recommend this agency to anyone who needs extra care. They are caring individuals who really care for their patients—reliable caregivers and great office workers who are hands-on and make sure they check on residents and patients. We appreciate you all at BrightStar.”
These stories show why planning ahead is so essential. By partnering with experienced, attentive professionals, families can feel confident knowing their loved one will receive the right care at the right time, helping them move into adulthood with security, dignity, and the best chance to thrive.
Starting Early: Preparing for the Move to Adult Care
For children with spina bifida, preparing for adult care should begin long before the teenage years. Early conversations with doctors, caregivers, and educators help families anticipate changes in medical needs, education plans, and daily routines.By starting early, families have more time to build trust with adult care providers, address potential barriers, and create a personalized transition plan that supports both the young person’s medical and emotional well-being.
When and How to Begin Planning
Experts recommend beginning transition planning around ages 12 to 14, giving families and healthcare teams enough time to shift responsibilities gradually. This process should include setting clear goals, discussing insurance or benefits changes, and connecting with adult specialists familiar with spina bifida.Regular check-ins with care teams ensure plans stay up-to-date with each child’s evolving needs, helping everyone stay on the same page
Building Self-Advocacy and Health Management Skills
A key part of transition success is empowering adolescents to speak up for themselves. Teaching young people to understand their condition, ask questions during medical appointments, and recognize early signs of health issues helps them take an active role in their care.Caregivers and nurses can reinforce these skills at home by encouraging teens to participate in medication management, scheduling appointments, and tracking their own health information.
Supporting Independence in Adolescents with Spina Bifida
As teens approach adulthood, they benefit from opportunities to practice making decisions, solving problems, and managing routines.Care teams can introduce gradual responsibilities, such as handling personal hygiene tasks or preparing simple meals, while providing guidance when needed. This balance of support and independence lays the foundation for a smoother transition to adult life.
Developing Daily Living and Social Skills
Beyond medical needs, life skills are crucial for thriving as an adult. Adolescents with spina bifida may need tailored strategies for dressing, mobility, or using adaptive devices.Encouraging participation in social activities, clubs, or volunteer opportunities can also build confidence and improve communication skills. These experiences foster independence and help young people form connections that support their emotional health and sense of belonging.
Coordinating Care Across Pediatric and Adult Services
At BrightStar Care, we know a successful transition relies on seamless communication between pediatric and adult healthcare providers. Our team works directly with families, specialists, and primary care physicians to ensure every aspect of care, from medication schedules to therapy needs, continues uninterrupted.By bridging the gap between children’s and adult services, we reduce confusion, minimize setbacks, and provide peace of mind for everyone involved.
Creating Comprehensive, Individualized Transition Plans
We believe every individual deserves a plan tailored to their unique goals, strengths, and health requirements. Our experienced care managers work closely with families to develop comprehensive transition plans that encompass medical care, daily routines, social development, and long-term goals. These personalized plans give our clients a clear path forward and empower them to achieve greater independence and fulfillment.Monitoring Adult Health Risks Specific to Spina Bifida
Adult life brings new challenges for those living with spina bifida, including increased risks for kidney issues, pressure sores, and mobility complications.Our skilled nurses and caregivers stay vigilant, performing regular assessments to catch early signs of emerging problems. By proactively monitoring these risks, we help prevent health crises and support our clients in maintaining optimal well-being as they age.
Strategies to Promote Engagement in Community Life
We understand that quality of life extends beyond medical care. Our team encourages and supports clients in exploring hobbies, volunteer opportunities, and social groups that match their interests.We also help identify accessible community resources in Columbus, so our clients can stay active, connected, and engaged with the world around them. By fostering community participation, we nurture confidence and a sense of belonging that lasts well into adulthood.
Contact BrightStar Care of Columbus NW / E!
BrightStar Care of Columbus NW / E is here to provide the resources and support you need to care for your loved one. Contact us today to learn more about caregiving services! Our office is located at 1685 Old Henderson Road, Columbus, OH, 43220. You may also call us at (614) 442-1000.We look forward to hearing from you!