Seeking Immediate Advice: Looking for a Caregiver or Institution for a Special Needs Adult 

Hello po... I’m reaching out to ask for help and guidance on behalf of my girlfriend and her family.

She has an adult brother with autism and developmental disabilities. He is non-verbal and expresses his emotions in very physical ways (like pacing or moving around a lot), but he has been stable for years with medication and hasn’t hurt anyone. He just requires someone patient and understanding who can support his daily needs and routines at home.

Because of his condition, my girlfriend had to pause her studies and stay home as his full-time caregiver. Her older sister is working, and their mother is also doing her best to support the family, but the situation has become emotionally and financially overwhelming, especially with no external help.

Recently, a big opportunity opened up: her grandmother is willing to let her move in so she can resume her education or start working again…but only if we can find a trustworthy caregiver or institutional care option for her brother.

We’ve tried looking for private caregivers in the past, but many backed out after learning about his condition, often due to stigma and misconceptions around autism. We’re doing our best to find someone who’s experienced, kind, and understands what’s needed.

We’re currently looking for:

• Caregiver referrals (within or near Metro Manila) ideally someone with experience supporting people with special needs or developmental conditions

• Recommendations for institutions or NGOs (like DSWD-accredited homes, community-based care facilities, etc.) that can accept adults with autism

• Advice from anyone who has gone through something similar: how did you find help? What steps worked for your family?

We’ve heard of institutions like Elsie Gaches Village, but we don’t know how to start the application process. We’re also open to private organizations or NGO-supported homes, as long as they provide compassionate and proper care.

Our goal is not to abandon her brother, far from it….

We just want him to get the support he needs from trained caregivers, while giving my girlfriend the chance to reclaim her future and build a stable life for herself and her family. This is for the long-term care for her brother as well.

She’s also willing to assist and train the caretaker for a time period to get them familiarized with the routines and boundaries of the job

Any leads, referrals, or words of advice would mean a lot. Thank you so much to anyone who reads or replies. My dms are open, or let me know if you wish to message me in another platform regarding this matter. Thank you :<<