Autism in Adulthood

Autism in Adulthood

Autism is a life-long, chronic disorder that can significantly impact affected people's social and cognitive development. As a result, autistic individuals' adult functioning is frequently compromised. Some autistic adults learn to function well in society. They are able to earn degrees and to maintain gainful employment. Others never develop the communication and self-help skills necessary to live independently. The number of adults with autism will rise significantly over the next two decades as the large group of recently diagnosed autistic children age. Correspondingly autism in adulthood is an issue of increasing concern.

When autistic children reach the age of fourteen, their caregivers and teachers create a transition planning review in collaboration with the school district. The transition planning review cover issues like education and training as well as career planning. At this time, or sometimes earlier, many parents also give thought to preparing a plan for ensuring their autistic children's welfare in the event that their children survive them.

Living arrangements and income are some of the major issues facing autistic adults. While some autistic adults are able to manage independently, others must be supervised around the clock in order to insure their safety. Even if an autistic adult is able to maintain a job and can groom himself independently, he may not be able to deal with everyday situations requiring good social skills like meeting new people, asking appropriate questions or maintaining interpersonal relationships.

Fortunately, there are many employers who are willing to hire high-functioning autistic or PDD employees. The ideal jobs for autistic adults are usually quite structured in nature and make a virtue of autistic people's strengths and interests. Many high-functioning autistic or PDD adults find gainful employment in computer-related fields, some like the repetition of assembly line work, and others prefer working with animals.

Living arrangements for autistic adults differ from case to case. A low-functioning autistic person with aggressive tendencies will usually need to be institutionalized. Fortunately, many autistic adults are able to function quite well in group homes that provided assisted living support (A list of group homes and related services is available at ArcLink) (http://www.thearclink.org/). Others live with family members throughout their lives.