Earlier this week, one writer for The Guardian described the mixed emotions she felt (“Autistic adults deserve the care – and recognition – we all do,” 25 Dec 2013) when attending the graduation ceremony for her younger sister, who has an autism spectrum disorder. The writer, a typically developing young woman, uses her sister’s story as an example of how existing support systems (day programs, etc.) are not designed to meet the health, housing, employment, and social needs of the growing number of adults with autism. She questions how people labeled as “consumers” are supposed to achieve true satisfaction.
For those still planning for the transition to adulthood, what are your biggest fears? What do you hope changes before your child turns 22? For those parents and caregivers who have navigated this complex transition, what advice can you offer? Please share your thoughts in the comments section.
Recommended reading: Life Journey through Autism: A Guide for Transition to Adulthood (OAR, 2006)
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