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Autism (ASD) | Last Active: Nov 8, 2022 | Replies (15)
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My stepson who is an adult is on the autism spectrum and is low functioning. He needs supervision 24/7. It makes me very, very sad that there is awareness and services for children with autism but once they become adults there is very little available. I read a research article awhile back that indicated the vast majority of adults with autism live with their parents because of unavailable resources.
This is what I would tell the world. Little kids with autism grow up to be adults. They need support from our society and culture.
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Absolutely! My grand-nephew is in the same situation - he now lives in a group home because after 20 years, my brother, his grandfather cannot handle his 5'10" 250 lbs when he gets upset. Sadly, they have tried for years to find a place that is more than a "warehouse", and it seems every time they do, management changes and the services lapse again.
We have several higher-functioning family members as well, and the only way they get help is from family - fortunately there are many of us - even my kids step in to help with things like supporting social skill development.
One of the hardest things is finding a suitable, supportive workplace, other than a "sheltered workshop." I have an acquaintance who starts teaching workplace skills to kids on the spectrum at 14, but the state ends services at their 22nd birthday - even if they are "not quite ready." These poor young adults end up living in their parents basement or a group home and watching TV. What a waste!
Sue