The Unique Challenges of Serving ASD Adults
Adults with autism can present unique characteristics which demand a new model of care. In general, present supports for adults with other developmental disabilities are insufficient or appropriate for the challenge of creating safe and independent lives for many adults who are substantially affected by autism. In particular, numerous studies have shown the following issues are more prevalent in the autism population.
Symptom and/or Disorder % Affected
Language & communication deficits 50-63%
Attention problems, impulsivity & hyperactivity 59%
Anxiety 43-84%
Depression 2-30%
Self-injurious and/or aggressive behavior 8-32%
Sensory issues - both tactile & auditory 80-90%
Food & gastrointestinal issues 30-90%
Sleep disruption 52-73%
Seizure disorder 5-49%
Source: Lancet, 2009, Summary of Comorbid Symptons
In addition, parents report that their children also: (1) have higher incidence of elopement, (2) possess stereotypical behavior including object fixation and self-stimulating activities, (3) exhibit rigid and inflexible behavior around changes to their environment, (4) show poor safety skills and have little fear of injury, (5) have difficulty forming relationships or friendships.
Recent estimates have shown that lifetime cost of care for an adult with autism is between $2.5-3.0m (in 2003 dollars), a number that is easily double or triple in the Bay Area. For persons with Down syndrome or cerebral palsy, the cost is less, approximately $1.2m. In 2007, CA regional centers reported that the average purchase of services cost for an adult with autism was 73% higher than persons with other disabilities. In addition, 79% of Regional Center clients with autism are male.
All of these conditions call for a new model of care and specialized training of caregivers. It also impacts the future profile of potential caregivers – adults with substantial autism and challenging behaviors will need caregivers who better understand their clients, possess immense patience and heart, yet also have the physical abilities to keep pace with those under their care.
Symptom and/or Disorder % Affected
Language & communication deficits 50-63%
Attention problems, impulsivity & hyperactivity 59%
Anxiety 43-84%
Depression 2-30%
Self-injurious and/or aggressive behavior 8-32%
Sensory issues - both tactile & auditory 80-90%
Food & gastrointestinal issues 30-90%
Sleep disruption 52-73%
Seizure disorder 5-49%
Source: Lancet, 2009, Summary of Comorbid Symptons
In addition, parents report that their children also: (1) have higher incidence of elopement, (2) possess stereotypical behavior including object fixation and self-stimulating activities, (3) exhibit rigid and inflexible behavior around changes to their environment, (4) show poor safety skills and have little fear of injury, (5) have difficulty forming relationships or friendships.
Recent estimates have shown that lifetime cost of care for an adult with autism is between $2.5-3.0m (in 2003 dollars), a number that is easily double or triple in the Bay Area. For persons with Down syndrome or cerebral palsy, the cost is less, approximately $1.2m. In 2007, CA regional centers reported that the average purchase of services cost for an adult with autism was 73% higher than persons with other disabilities. In addition, 79% of Regional Center clients with autism are male.
All of these conditions call for a new model of care and specialized training of caregivers. It also impacts the future profile of potential caregivers – adults with substantial autism and challenging behaviors will need caregivers who better understand their clients, possess immense patience and heart, yet also have the physical abilities to keep pace with those under their care.
