People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face many challenges during their transition from adolescence to adulthood. Research suggests that fewer autistic individuals have the same opportunities as their peers without ASD. As a result, children with autism must receive the proper intervention, therapy, and support to give them the best foot forward as they step into the world as young adults.
What are the common signs of autism in young adults?
There are some typical signs of people with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), which may include:
- Challenges in interpreting others’ emotions or feelings
- Feeling overwhelmed in social situations
- Challenges in making friends
- Preferring to be alone
- Difficulties in communicating emotions or feelings
- Perceived as rude, blunt, or abrasive
- Unable to understand figurative language
- Experiences agitation or anxiety if a routine is disrupted
How is autism diagnosed in adulthood?
Most autistic adults were diagnosed as children; however, autism can be identified later in life, now that the condition is better understood. A qualified healthcare professional conducts a diagnosis of adult autism. It’s an evaluation that entails discussing behavior and personality traits, performing cognitive activity-based tests, and completing questionnaires.
Some of these diagnostic tests include:
- ADOS-2: the gold standard for diagnosing autism in people of all ages
- The Developmental, Dimensional, and Diagnostic Interview-Adult Version (3Di-Adult)
- The Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS)
- Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)
Addressing Mental Health Challenges in Autistic Young Adults
Young adults with autism are at higher risk for mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or burnout due to social challenges, sensory overload, or the pressure to “mask” autistic traits. Signs include withdrawal, irritability, or difficulty concentrating. Therapies like mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CBI), and counseling can help manage these challenges.
What support services are available for young adults with autism?
Multiple services are available for young adults with autism:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)
- Developmental Disability (DD) Waiver
- Community Support Groups
How can young adults with autism improve social skills?
Many adults on the autism spectrum find it difficult to socialize with others.
However, there are many ways to reinforce and improve their interpersonal skills, which include:
- A daily routine that incorporates social activities
- Use personalized teaching stories
- Give positive reinforcement
- Model social skills
- Visual supports
What employment opportunities exist for young adults on the autism spectrum?
Autistic individuals have many skill sets that are highly desirable in the workplace.
Some careers that align with their talents and abilities can include:
- Computer Programmer
- Pharmacy Technician
- Web Designer
- Data Entry Clerk
- Dog Groomer
- Accounting Clerk
Many companies actively employ people with autism:
- AMC Theaters
- CVS
- Ford
- Kroger
- Home Depot
- JP Morgan Chase
- Lowe’s
- Walgreens
- Walmart
How does autism affect relationships and dating in young adulthood?
Many individuals with autism crave friendship and love. However, due to their challenges interpreting and expressing emotions, for an autistic person, dating can be a very confusing and distressing activity. As a result, they need specialized therapy and support to help them navigate the complex terrain of romantic relationships.
Understanding the Emotional Impact of Transitioning to Adulthood with Autism
The transition from adolescence to adulthood can be emotionally overwhelming for young adults with autism due to changes in routine, increased responsibilities, and social pressures. Common emotional challenges include anxiety about independence, fear of failure in work or relationships, and feelings of isolation if social connections are limited. Caregivers can help by fostering open communication, validating emotions, and seeking professional support.
Self-Advocacy in Autistic Adults
Self-advocacy is crucial for autistic young adults to navigate workplaces, educational settings, and social environments. This involves understanding their strengths, communicating their needs, and requesting accommodations (e.g., sensory breaks or clear instructions).
Strategies to build self-advocacy include:
- Role-Playing Scenarios: Practice requesting accommodations or explaining autism-related needs.
- Education on Rights: Learn about protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- Therapeutic Support: Work with therapists to build confidence in self-expression.
What educational resources are beneficial for young adults with autism?
Many organizations provide resources for autistic adults.
These sites provide information and advice about educational and vocational planning, executive functioning, daily living skills, and self-advocacy:
- The Center on Secondary Education for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders
- The National Technical Assistance Center on Transition
- Think College
- College Internship Program
- Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services
Financial Planning and Support for Autistic Young Adults
Financial management can be challenging for autistic young adults due to difficulties with executive functioning or understanding abstract concepts like budgeting.
Families can support this by:
- Teaching Budgeting Skills: Use visual aids like apps or charts to track income and expenses.
- Exploring Benefits: Apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Developmental Disability (DD) Waivers to provide financial support.
- Vocational Training: Engage in programs that teach job skills and financial literacy.
How can young adults with autism manage sensory sensitivities?
Processing everyday sensory information can be very difficult for people with autism. Depending on the environment, any of their senses may be under- or overstimulated, or both.
However, many treatments help autistic adults effectively manage their sensory processing, which can include:
- Music Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech and Language Therapy
- Sensory Integrative Therapy
What are effective strategies for independent living for those with autism?
Many people on the autism spectrum require support in developing basic life skills, such as self-care and hygiene, cooking, money management, shopping, and transportation. There are several strategies parents and caregivers can teach at home to prepare them for independent living.
Here’s a general three-step approach:
- Assess the skills: List your child’s strengths and challenges to create goals.
- Teach the skills: Use visual aids, like charts, checklists, or graphic organizers, and model the activities
- Practice these new skills: Practice makes perfect! Remember, to truly master a new skill, you must eventually practice with your autistic child in real-world settings.
How can families support a young adult with autism during the transition to adulthood?
Starting in high school, your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) will include transition services that should provide instruction in daily life skills, self-advocacy, and vocational planning. However, providing supplemental support in the home is crucial to your autistic child’s successful transition to adulthood. Working closely with your child’s IEP team is important to ensure they’re receiving the appropriate services to prepare them for adulting.
Support Services for Young Adults with Autism
If you have concerns about your autistic child, Roman Empire Agency offers comprehensive support and tailored treatment plans to help your loved one thrive.
We aim to support your child’s ongoing development through a personalized approach, helping them achieve their full potential now and into adulthood.
If you’d like to learn more about our services and how we can help you and your child, contact us today!
