I am in a similar place to Cheri. My son just graduated from HS and is off to college in the Fall. Erik had an aid for 10 days in HS when his arm strength had a major change. He was thankful for the transition support, but was ready to have her gone as soon as possible. I think to have an aide or not is dependent on the child's needs. Erik is very independent. Having an aide would "cramp his style." He is commuting to college by bus without an aide. I figure that he will know when he needs one. So far his upper body strength has recovered some and he is able to function well.