Autism in Adults

Autism in adults can create difficult challenges for everyone involved. Dealing with autism in adults often involves crucial decisions about living arrangements, employment opportunities, and support services. Parents of adults with autism need to search for the best programs and facilities available to them. The local Social Security Administration office can be a good place to start learning about programs offering assistance to those dealing with autism in adults.

 

Autism in Adults: An Overview

The public schools' responsibility for providing services ends when the person with autism reaches the age of 22. The family is then faced with the challenge of finding living arrangements and employment to match the particular needs of their adult child, as well as the programs and facilities that can provide support services to achieve these goals. Long before your child finishes school, you will want to search for the best programs and facilities for your young adult. If you know other parents of autistic adults, ask them about the services available in your community. If your community has little to offer, serve as an advocate for your child and work toward the goal of improved employment services.
 

Autism in Adults: Employment

Some adults with autism, especially those with high-functioning autism, are able to work successfully in mainstream jobs. Nevertheless, communication and social problems often cause difficulties in many areas of life. They will continue to need encouragement and moral support in their struggle for an independent life.
 
Many others with autism are capable of employment in sheltered workshops under the supervision of managers trained in working with persons with disabilities. A nurturing environment at home, at school, and later in job training and at work, helps people with ASD continue to learn and to develop throughout their lives.
 
(Autism in Adults Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD