How To Deal With Austistic Adultsadmin
Autism spectrum disorder, also known as ASD, is a developmental disorder that can affect behavior and communication. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5 (DSM 5) of the American Psychiatric Association states that diagnostic criteria include:
- Persistent deficits in social communication across multiple contexts and social interaction
- Restricted, repetitive behavior, interests, or activities
These symptoms of autism must occur in the early development period and cannot be explained by intellectual disability. ASD symptoms must be accompanied by clinically significant impairment in social and occupational functioning.
DSM-5 combined four different autism diagnoses to create the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Individuals who have been previously diagnosed with any of these disorders are now included in the new ASD diagnosis. These include:
- Autistic disorder
- childhood disintegrative disorder
- Pervasive developmental disorder that is not otherwise identified
- Asperger’s syndrome (considered high functioning autistic disorder)
Autism is a spectrum, which is why we cannot categorize individuals with autism in one group. Because each autistic person is different, we can’t treat them all the same.
ASD does not require special assistance for all people. However, some adults may need ongoing support depending on their ability to function independently. It might mean that they need to be aided by:
- An applied behavior analyst
- A life coach
- a mentor
- A home health aid that comes in daily
How to interact with autistic adults
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder may live with their loved ones or with their families. Others may live in group homes, while others can live independently with very little assistance.
Autism spectrum adults often have unique characteristics that can make their lives difficult. Functional communication and socializing can be difficult for some people because they may not be as verbal or have poor social skills.
Others might need lots of encouragement, training, reinforcement, and support to be able to manage their daily lives independently. Many adults with ASD do have a career or job, though not all. Helping these people can help them prepare for their job responsibilities and instill a strong work ethic.
who work with adults with autism usually:
Even those with previous experience can continue to learn about autism. Learn how to manage autism in adults to make sure they:
- Get the best possible treatment
- Use their talents
- Get the most from your life
Autism spectrum refers to a variety of disorders. Each disorder is unique and each one is sub-classified to simplify diagnosis. These disorders may share some common characteristics, such as difficulty with speech or language. This includes both verbal and nonverbal communication, expressive and receptive language skills, and functional communication skills. To help individuals with autism communicate in their preferred manner, you will need to know.
A person with autism at the upper end of the spectrum can speak fluently and use other communication strategies. Individuals with autism may be completely nonverbal and need to communicate their needs by using:
- sign language
- Assistive technology
- nonverbal communication
Adults with ASD should be treated with respect and spoken to in the same way as you would to any other person. Although your vocabulary may change depending on the developmental level of the person you are speaking to, there is no reason not to speak with respect.
The May Institute has great advice for adults with ASD from autism experts.
- You should treat him/her as an adult and not as a child.
All disabilities can be present, so don’t assume that every person with autism spectrum disorder is incapable of thinking.
- Avoid using phrases or words that are too familiar.
It is not appropriate to use pet names, terms of endearment for someone, or call them “sweetie”. Respect others and keep things professional.
- Use your words to express what you really mean.
You’ll learn how you can communicate with autistic adults. It is important to avoid metaphors and sarcasm, because autistic people are often very literal and understand the meaning of words.
- Listen carefully.
You can play the role of an active listener. Listen to what your friend has to say, whether they are sharing a story or need to vent their emotions.
- Wait for a reply to a question you have asked.
Communication is essential. Not everyone with autism spectrum disorder processes at the same speed.
- Give valuable feedback
Your job is helping adults with autism spectrum disorders. You can give immediate feedback, but not judgment, if you observe an incontinence or have a better way to say/do something.
- Do not speak as though the person isn’t there.
If you are working with family members, or other professionals, it is a good idea to address the autistic person along with them if they are in the same room.
Everyone is different and uses a different communication style – even those with autism!
Respect and Understand Boundaries
When working with autistic adults, it is a good idea to set and maintain boundaries. You need to not only set your own boundaries, verbal and physical, but also understand the boundaries of your client.
Autism spectrum disorder suffers from sensory overload, which can lead to the inability to take in stimuli that are familiar to others. It is important that people with autism spectrum disorder do not have the same physical gestures as others.
- Being physically close to one another
Ask your client or a loved one what they prefer when you begin work with them. You can also set your own boundaries during this conversation.
Writing a social story, or creating a “contract” to define boundaries might help if there is a problem.
Autism diagnosis patients often thrive when they are given the right environment:
Your client may feel more secure and comfortable if you set clear expectations and boundaries. This will help them to understand the daily routine and feel safer.
Remember that they’re not the only ones responsible for maintaining appropriate boundaries. You are also responsible!
It is vital that your client’s surrounding environment remains calm and peaceful during times of panic or upset. Raised voices can increase anxiety and tension. It is best to speak softly and allow them to have their space. Distraction can also help with tasks they like. Examples include:
- Assembling a puzzle
- Listening to music
- Reading a book
Autism sufferers are known for being meticulous. You can help them shift their focus from disorder to organization by sorting pieces by size, for example. This will give them a sense of structure and be very soothing.
Adults with ASD have many options for self-soothing and calming techniques. If you are unsure what to do, these strategies can help adults with autism.
- Use a blanket or vest with weighted features.
- Use essential oils
- Play with putty, or any other type of fidget
- Breathing exercises can be practiced
- You can do guided meditations on your TV or phone.
- Utilize EFT tapping
- Take a walk
- Play with your pet
- Be creative with art
Autism is unique in the way they deal with stress and how they calm down. Find out more about your clients, including how they react to triggers and which methods they use to calm down.
Prepared and Organized
Working with autistic persons, expect the worst and be ready for the unexpected!
You can either stay at home or go out with your client. Have a schedule ready for them the day before to ensure they are comfortable. Communicate with your client immediately if there are any changes and make sure they feel comfortable about it.
Sometimes, it can be difficult to go out into the community. It is possible that people around your client with autism may not be aware of the condition. This can lead to frustration. If the original plan fails, prepare for an alternative way of getting out. If anxiety strikes, have calming strategies ready. Your client should also be learning skills in the community. This could be:
- practicing social skills
- Paying for food using money
- Use appropriate communication
- Finding items in a store
These things can be practiced at home to help clients feel more comfortable and mentally prepared before they go out in the community.
Two important skills for working with autistic adults are being able to discuss unfamiliar situations ahead of their time and using distractions to avoid anxiety.
Adults with ASD often struggle to adjust to a change in routine. This is especially true if the change is sudden. A lot of people with autism prefer to be prepared for any new situation and to know what to expect. It is important to stick to a schedule.
You might want to eat and wash your hands at the same time every day. You can also schedule your leisure time and work hours. It is important to learn about the client and what they are looking for in consistency. Not everyone will want it the same. A few adults with ASD may not be able to adjust their schedules.
We can help
A support group is a wonderful way for caregivers and parents to connect and share their experiences. Learn about the following:
- Workshops in their area or online groups that are relevant
- Innovative therapies
- Services for autism in their locality
- Methods to effectively deal with everyday challenges
These groups are not universally applicable. These are just a few of the types that you might find.
These groups are run by the parents or relatives of autistic individuals. These groups provide emotional support and a sense of community.
Educational support groups provide a forum for sharing the most recent autism information, including the best practices and techniques employed by professionals.
They are led by professionals who have experience working with people on the autism spectrum. These could be led or coordinated by an organization that offers support services.
- Family Autism Support Groups
Family support groups are focused on the effects of ASD diagnosis on the family. They might share their daily struggles or benefit from community resources.
Tips to Work with Adults on Autism Spectrum: Conclusion
ASD adults are extraordinary individuals, with a wide range of talents:
- Cognitive and physical abilities
Although it can sometimes be difficult to work with people on the spectrum, it can often be rewarding and amazing. ASD adults can benefit from extra empathy and compassion, regardless of the support they receive from their loved ones.
Understanding autism in adults
Everyone has their quirks. You may be noticing a difference in your thinking, feeling or behavior.
Maybe your body language, social skills or preferences are not in line with others. Perhaps your child was diagnosed with autism recently and you are recognizing some of the same problems in your own behavior.
More people embrace the notion of neurodiversity in recent years. This is the concept that certain people may have neurological differences. These differences should be respected and not “corrected”. Unexpectedly, an adult diagnosed with autism can be a surprise. The diagnosis can cause anxiety or denial.
Autism with Adults Diagnosis
A diagnosis may be a relief for those who have suspected you might have ASD or another condition that makes you different from others. You suddenly find that a lot of your previous interactions and experiences make sense, and you feel more in control.
No matter how you feel about a diagnosis, remember that you are unique and have your strengths and weaknesses. To better understand yourself and your behavior, you can always take more steps.
Autism signs and symptoms in adults
Autism can present with many symptoms, even though the focus is on “high functioning” autism. Adult autism symptoms are most noticeable in communication skills, behavioral patterns, and sensitivity towards stimuli such as noise and touch.
Adults with ASD might have difficulty reading social cues. It can include everything, from the facial expressions of another person to their tone or voice, which makes it difficult to understand what they are feeling or to have back-and-forth conversations. It can be difficult to spot sarcasm and figures in speech.