Autism Awareness is a Big Part of Senior Care

Autism spectrum disorders may seem like a relatively new phenomenon, but the fact is that the diagnosis process for ASD is much more thorough today than it once was. That means that many more older people are likely on the spectrum than we are aware of it. This also means that seniors might not be diagnosed as being on the spectrum, yet still deal with all of the complications that autism brings with it.

 

Autism is a disorder that can have a profound impact on social interactions. Those with an autism spectrum disorder are different in a way. They may seem socially awkward, unaware, or even rude and offensive. They can be difficult to work with or speak to, so oftentimes people just ignore them.

 

Unfortunately, that’s probably the worst thing that can be done, especially when it comes to seniors with autism that are in need of assistance. Yes, even senior caregivers need to be more aware of what autism is and how to interact with people who are on the spectrum. For example, if someone with autism avoids making eye contact, it is not something that a caregiver should let get to them. This is common for people who are on the spectrum and it is not them trying to be rude. Making eye contact is incredibly difficult when someone has an ASD, and the caregiver needs to adjust their expectations of the situation accordingly.

 

More seniors suffer from autism spectrum disorders than you might think. Being aware of this can help to improve senior care.

 

The behaviors of the caregiver needs to be adjusted, too. For example, it can be common for an individual with autism to be upset or put off track by common things. An agreement is needed that these “side-tracks” will not become a problem or prohibit the caregiver from doing their job. Speaking with them when they are in a good mood so that an understanding can be arrived at is an important part of successful care. Like so many other things that caregivers must do, this can be accomplished if they plan ahead. It may be even more helpful to put this in writing so that it is clearly visible and understood by everyone.

 

For the most part, people with autism do want to have social lives and they do want to have friends and others to care for them and about them in their lives. However, social situations can be difficult and they can be hesitant to enter these situations–even a relationship between a person in need and a caregiver–because of those difficulties. Patience, compassion, and a lot of understanding can go a long way toward helping those individuals that deal with autism in their lives, yet need to rely on others for help with their day to day tasks.

 

If you or an elderly loved one is on the spectrum, you want a caregiver who understands this and is able to effectively do their job without making life harder. The whole point of a caregiver is to make life easier, and this can only be accomplished if the caregiver understands some of the nuances that autism spectrum disorders bring with them.

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