While its true that autism traits appear first in early childhood, autism doesnt only affect children.
Those diagnosed with the condition grow into adults who face lifelong challenges.
An autistic child wont just outgrow autism to become a neurotypical adult.
Intellectual Reserve, Inc.
When an autistic person suppresses their autism traits, it is called masking and often has unintended damaging consequences.
Obstacles for Autistic Adults
Why is relatively little written about autism and adulthood?
These external factors play a significant role.
Autism traits include issues with speech and nonverbal communication, sensory issues, and social interaction.
They include self-care, shopping, cooking, and maintaining a calendar.
Life skills training can support adults with autism.
Transportation
Transportation and housing can also be challenging for autistic adults.
Not surprisingly, a very large number of autistic adults also live with their parents or guardians.
Strengths of Autistic Adults
Some autistic adults are highly successful people.
In general, autistic people arehonest and dependableemployees, focused on their work.
Some corporations have started to recognize the value of actively recruiting and hiring autistic individuals.
These include Freddie Mac, Microsoft, Walgreens, and SAP.
These accommodations do not require lowering performance standards.
Health insurers in all 50 states are required to cover autism treatment.
One excellent, updated source of information about state-by-state offerings is Easterseals.
Medicaid may or may not be a source of funding for housing, day programs, and other services.
Many speak publicly about their experiences and offer resources and insights to autistic adults and their family members.
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