All of your responses have been EXTREMELY helpful, and i am feeling a lot better about choosing to make the move with my son, to the Villages - i cant Thank you all enough!!!

You'll have to watch him closely just like you would anywhere. The Village people are very accepting and friendly.

Rent for 6 months and also find out if you need medication and healthcare it’s very mediocre here and meds crazy expensive.

People aren’t as tolerant as they used to be living in a homogenous society doesn’t foster empathy

I haven’t found healthcare mediocre...just gotta do your research. We’ve got Ocala close, Shands at UF in Gainesville and Orlando. All within an hour. And...,Mayo in Jacksonville. Meds being expensive has to do with your healthcare policy and the meds you’re on......not The Villages.

We moved here 3 years ago with a 23 year old learning disabled daughter. She is having the best time of her life. There is a parent advocacy group I can connect you with that is very helpful. She is safe here and is on bowling leagues. Many of her friends have autism. We could never have her so busy in ny. My name is Joan 6317674878. We never regret it.

I work with high school students with Autism and multiple disabilities in NY. We go out into the community weekly and have NEVER had anyone treat them without kindness. When I come to my house in TV, I run into people on the spectrum often. I can't think of a more perfect place to live with your son. Depending where he is on the spectrum, He could get a job. There are so many establishments that have programs for volunteer work. There is also a club called day break, where your child goes to and gives it the parent a break. It seems like there are many activities and groups that people mentioned. Sounds like a win-win to me. When I become permanent when I retire in a year and a half, I will also look into these groups to volunteer. I can't tell you the joy I get being with my students! OK, not every minute. Sometimes they can be annoying like my own kids! LOL

Lot's of changes here in TV. Been here well over eight years. We are moving as soon as the house is built in another part of FL. TV losing it's glitter! Apartments make a whole life style different.

Health care here in TV is well below par. The Village Hospital is rated under 3.0. Don't kid yourself.

It is now run by University of Florida/Gainesville. A huge step up.