Autism can be quite confusing to those who are unfamiliar with it. Families and caregivers can better understand what a loved one with autism goes through by understanding autism and what being on the spectrum means.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder that has a significant impact on communication and behavior. This condition usually manifests during the early years of childhood, and it can cause problems with social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication, and repetitive behavior. Autism affects how people behave, communicate, interact, and learn. Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) affect people differently on all levels. Some individuals with autism may be able to communicate effectively, while others may be unable to communicate at all. There are several reasons why this may happen. Some people with ASD require a great deal of assistance in their daily lives, while others can work and live independently.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of ASD?
People with autism spectrum disorders often struggle with social communication and interaction, as well as restricted or repetitive interests and behaviors. Additionally, people with autism spectrum disorders may have different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention. It is important to keep in mind, however, that some people without ASD may also exhibit some of these symptoms. Individuals with autism may experience several difficulties due to the characteristics associated with autism.Common signs of autism in adults include:
- Having difficulty understanding others’ thoughts and feelings
- Anxiety about social situations
- Finding it difficult to make friends or preferring to be alone
- Being blunt, rude, or uninterested in others without meaning to
- Having trouble expressing your feelings
- Taking things literally, such as sarcasm and phrases like “break a leg”
- Routines that never change and becoming anxious if they do
Tips for Caring for Adults with ADS
Allow Enough Time For Communication
There is a wide range of language skills and social skills between people with ASD and those without. Some adults with autism have relatively good communication skills despite taking things too literally or being unable to understand certain social cues. Others may be difficult to understand, may have trouble following directions or conversations, or may even be nonverbal. The key to improving communication is patience and time.Maintain consistency by reinforcing it
Autism can make it difficult for people to adjust to changes in routines, schedules, and environments. They may feel anxious, frustrated, or even have emotional outbursts due to the change. When a person with autism feels anxious, consistency may bring them comfort and make them feel more in control. Your goal should be to establish consistency in their environment and their routines as much as possible to help them feel more independent and secure, to alleviate some of the stress they may be experiencing, help them achieve their goals, and to improve your relationship with them.The daily routine of a person who receives care can vary depending on the level of care they receive and the caregiver's ability to meet their individual goals, challenges, and needs. An individual's daily activities may include getting ready for work, preparing meals, eating, performing daily chores, participating in social activities and hobbies, and attending therapy sessions.
For someone who needs assistance, creating a simple list of the tasks they need to accomplish each day can be helpful. Schedules should include a description of each activity, the time it will take, and the steps you will need to complete each activity. Calendars, alarms, and timers are helpful for people who keep track of important events and appointments.
Assist in Emotional Preparation
Any kind of change can be difficult for someone with autism. Many unexpected changes can be extremely traumatic since they cannot be predicted or prepared for. In those moments, it's important to be kind, supportive, and patient. When a person with autism cannot plan for changes, clear communication can make a huge difference.People with ASD need to be informed about changes, when to expect them, and why they will benefit them as early as possible. With strategies such as countdown calendars, practice runs or drives to a new location, videos or photographs showing what to expect at or during the activity, and rewards, new (and often anxiety-provoking) activities can be completed. A smooth transition to change can be achieved by allowing extra time, allowing the person to bring comfort items, and remaining calm and patient.
Provide Them with Personal Space
Some people with autism overstep social norms of personal space as a result of social and sensory challenges. They might hug strangers who don't know them too closely or speak too close to them. It is true, however, that there are people who struggle with both. Individuals with ASD tend to avoid eye contact and engage with others due to their inability to understand and respond to social cues. Some people are overwhelmed by loud conversations or dislike being touched. They may feel anxious and uncomfortable when you hug, handshake, or brush their arm.Therefore, adults with autism need their own space. People who experience this level of discomfort may have difficulty communicating with others if they are forced to speak too close to them, take their hand (especially a stranger's hand), or hug them. Consider their comfort level when adapting your approach. If you want to greet someone or calm a stressful situation, you can give them a wave and a smile or say something supportive or complimentary to them. If you want to greet someone or calm a stressful situation, you can also give them a hug or handshake.
How can people with ASD be supported?
There is no "cure" for autism spectrum disorder. People with autism can benefit from a variety of supportive therapies and other factors, as they can relieve some of their symptoms and help them cope with the challenges they face.In many approaches, these therapies are often used:
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Behavioral therapy
Contact BrightStar Care Melbourne Today!
BrightStar Care provides a team of professionals ready to care for you and your loved ones. We understand the challenges faced by caregivers and are committed to providing compassionate care that meets the needs of those we serve. If you would like more information about our services, please visit our website or call us today.Contact us today to learn more about our companion care services. Our office is located at 3270 Suntree Blvd Suite 101, Melbourne, FL 32940, United States. You may also call us at 321 -549-0292. We look forward to hearing from you soon!