Pratt, C., Hopf, R., & Larriba-Quest, K. (2017). Characteristics of individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The Reporter, 21(17). Retrieved from https://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/characteristics. Show Autism was first recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders in 1980 and until recently was understood only as a pediatric condition (Verhoeff, 2013); this left potentially significant numbers of teenagers and adults (now adults and seniors) under- or misdiagnosed for decades. As our understanding of autism and its prevalence has evolved, mid-to-late life diagnosis has become a more important topic in autism research (Au-Yeng et al., 2018). Presently, reliable assessments and diagnostic measures specific to older age groups have yet to be developed and widely accepted (Wingham et al., 2019). Edelson et al. (2020) presuppose that the current lack of a diagnosis may be due to insufficient healthcare training surrounding the medical and social/emotional needs and the communication, sensory and behavioral challenges faced by adults on the spectrum. They call for a greater focus on validated diagnostic assessments for adults and seniors with autism in order to provide sufficient medical and social support for these individuals. Autism Symptoms in Adults“Classic” symptoms of autism in children are not always present in adults on the spectrum, especially in those underdiagnosed as children (Lewis, 2018). Adults on the spectrum commonly exhibit symptoms related to social and communication difficulties, repetitive behaviors, sensory processing difficulties, and issues with executive function and theory of mind. Short descriptions and lists of common symptoms in adults are listed below (Autism Speaks, 2015; Lewis, 2018). Social SymptomsSocial difficulties include issues with communication and understanding, which sometimes makes the ordinary exchange process of social conversation difficult. It is often difficult for adults with autism to see things from another point of view and interpret nonverbal communications such as eye-rolling, shoulder shrugging, or other facial expressions. Examples include:
Repetitive BehaviorsRepetitive behaviors include restricted schedules and activities, strict layouts and consistency of surrounding environments, and intense interests or obsessions. Often repetitive behaviors are responses to overstimulation and signs of sensory processing issues. Examples include:
Executive FunctionExecutive function refers to abilities and skills related to planning, organizing, attention maintenance, and self-regulation. Adults on the spectrum may experience challenges with complex planning and thinking, making it difficult to see “big-picture” ideas into which their intense subjects of focus fit. Examples include:
Is it Autism?These symptoms do not categorically evidence an autism diagnosis. However, it is essential to note that autism is frequently accompanied by at least one co-occurring condition such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, gastrointestinal and immune function disorders, or epilepsy. If you have/currently suffer from a combination of these conditions (diagnosed or not), discussing the possibility of autism screening and diagnosis with your practitioner could supply answers and understanding to some health issues. There is, to date, no laboratory test for autism. Autism screenings include questionnaires and observations to assess which symptoms are present and their severity. After an initial assessment, your clinician will likely refer you to a specialist team for proper autism screening and diagnosis. Not all adults who identify with autism symptoms seek out a clinical diagnosis. That remains a personal choice, and there are benefits to both decisions. However, consulting with your general practitioner can help you better understand and manage autism symptoms even without a clinical diagnosis. Post DiagnosisMany autism services and programs are only available to those with a clinical diagnosis. After receiving an autism diagnosis, you can collaborate with your doctor to identify treatments and services specific to your needs. Getting involved in your communities can help you better understand autism and provide access to support through local groups and services designed specifically for individuals with your strengths and talents. Our adult webinar page is a useful source of evidence-based information and resources for adults diagnosed with autism. Melanie Glock2022-06-13T13:46:20-05:00 LGBTQ+ and AutismMelanie Glock2022-06-13T13:46:20-05:00June 13th, 2022|News, Parenting| Research on autism and sexual identity suggests that individuals with autism may be more likely to identify as LGBTQ+. We hope these resources from around the web are helpful to the LGBTQ+ autismAdmin2022-01-13T10:40:49-05:00 Behavioral Strategies to Treat Anxiety in Individuals with ASDautismAdmin2022-01-13T10:40:49-05:00October 12th, 2021|Anxiety, depression, Ways to Help, Webinar| Lauren Moskowitz, Ph.D. discusses positive behavioral strategies for supporting individuals with autism who also experience anxiety. Handouts are online HERE About the speaker: Melanie Glock2022-02-03T09:52:33-05:00 Lifestyle issues play role in shorter life expectancyMelanie Glock2022-02-03T09:52:33-05:00September 16th, 2021|Research| Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have a shorter life expectancy than people in the general population, and a new study suggests that lifestyle issues play a large role in shortening autismAdmin2022-02-23T08:49:06-05:00 Maximizing Neurodiversity: Education & JobsautismAdmin2022-02-23T08:49:06-05:00May 4th, 2021|Adults on the Spectrum, Parenting, Webinar| Scientist and psychiatrist Lawrence Fung, MD, Ph.D., discusses what neurodiversity is and how increased awareness and support benefits not only neurodiverse individuals but the global population as a whole. He outlines the Strengths-Based Model Melanie Glock2022-03-01T09:42:43-05:00 Challenging behaviors in adults with autismMelanie Glock2022-03-01T09:42:43-05:00April 5th, 2021|News, Research| Challenging behaviors such as aggression, destructiveness, and self-injury take a tremendous toll on adults with autism and their caregivers. Each week, the Autism Research Institute receives desperate communications from caregivers seeking Nicole2021-07-21T09:32:13-05:00 Workplace Accommodation TipsNicole2021-07-21T09:32:13-05:00August 13th, 2020|News, Uncategorized| Finding the best job match is key to meaningful employment. But even good matches often include negotiated adjustments and accommodations – success involves fitting the job to the person as much as What are the signs of high functioning autism in adults?10 Symptoms of High-Functioning Autism. Emotional Sensitivity.. Fixation on Particular Subjects or Ideas.. Linguistic Oddities.. Social Difficulties.. Problems Processing Physical Sensations.. Devotion to Routines.. Development of Repetitive or Restrictive Habits.. Dislike of Change.. Can you have autism and not know it?While autism is most often diagnosed in toddlers, it's possible for autistic adults to go undiagnosed.
What triggers autism in adults?Some genetic mutations seem to be inherited, while others occur spontaneously. Environmental factors. Researchers are currently exploring whether factors such as viral infections, medications or complications during pregnancy, or air pollutants play a role in triggering autism spectrum disorder.
What are some coping skills for autism?Examples of coping strategies for autistic people. music.. going for a walk.. exercise.. deep breathing.. engage in a pleasant and relaxing activity.. sensory and fidget toys.. prayer/meditation.. practice mindfulness.. |