Napa family installs backyard ADU to help son achieve independence

A family in Napa used an Accessory Dwelling Unit -- ADU -- to help their developmentally disabled son gain his independence. John Ramos reports.

[bplbpl]

Jacob is lucky of having parents that can help him

[christinehy]

My neighbor built ADU in his backyard for his elder mom who needs care. He is a good son.

[felycacal]

This is better than living in an apartment. At least by the time he pays it off, it’s his to keep and can call it his own property. Good job Napa Valley. Your idea is practical and helpful for the young kids.

[CaraElliott-ys]

Awesome parents, Jacob's independency matters.

[nancymcmonarch]

This is the best use of an ADU I've ever seen! MUCH better than a cruddy, troublesome AirB&B.

[miroyuki]

Jacob is awesome, I met him before and he’s a smart and very respectful young man. So glad for him 😌

[lauralyndickson]

With the cost of living going up and up it's not unusual to see families having to share homes to make ends meet. This is a way to combine incomes to help make ends meet in an uncertain economy. So many ways to help struggling families.

[liquedsky]

Much respect for those who have these opinions... The price of housing and rent these days is outrageous!!!

[cyborg]

I have ADHD, even though that I don’t live in a ADU, but I am very grateful to be living in my grandmother‘s house That was inherited to me and I am very grateful for my mother to be given me independence. This news hits close to home.

[MOMMYchel]

Very supportive mom and dad .. I wish i have a parents like Jacob ..

[mcnoneya]

As a disabled adult I would love this, our backyard isn’t big enough, independent living is yrs long wait and often the places aren’t in the best neighborhoods and if you are disabled safety is important. We’ve actually discussed this. The only issue is my mother doesn’t like to stay in one place for too long so if she moved and I stayed, then what would I do, I’m terrified to live too far from home, I suffer from depression.

[lucy]

My 28 year old son is autistic. He lives in a group home with other mentally challenged young adults. He also works part time and volunteers. Not many parents can afford to throw in an apartment to their home

[Celebritystylish]

He is so lucky to have such nice and caring parents !

[paigelynn.]

Such an amazing idea!! Leaving your son a safe, comfortable home and teaching him independence! Well done Mom & Dad!!

[margaretcarter]

That was a superb idea and now you can still keep an eye on him and know that he’s safe and help him when he needs help! My own son moved out at 21 into his own apartment and he really likes it. I miss him a little bit, but I also realize that he has to live his life and make his own choices. Disabled or not they need to have their own space.

[vickiesorenson]

Most adult kids are getting support from parents. Inflation, low pay, and unable to pay for things are becoming the standard.

[lovesgucci]

I love this but it’s pretty infuriating that so many can’t afford even a studio apartment. I’m so happy for Jacob & his parents! Also a plus, Jacob being a Phillies fan!! Go Phils ❤️⚾️

[beekaye]

Such an awesome idea and good see the helping a ADHD young man. The State assistance is key and should be everywhere to help those with any ailment limited their independence growing up. GOD bless everyone

[insidethegardenwall]

No HOA restrictions on separate dwellings? How nice!

[UnknownPerson-ubox]

I think this is wonderful Good for him❤