Startling statistics reveal that only around 16% of adults with autism are employed full-time.
But do you know that they can live an independent and fulfilled life with the right treatment and support?
Though early intervention is essential, it is never too late to seek treatment and support. There are some innovative treatments for autism in adults that you should learn about.
Hop on to unravel everything you need to know!
Autism in Adults
Autism in adults refers to the presence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms and characteristics in individuals who have reached adulthood. While autism is commonly diagnosed in childhood, some individuals may go undiagnosed until later in life.
The signs and symptoms of autism in adults can vary, but they often include challenges in social interactions, difficulties in understanding others’ thoughts and feelings, trouble with communication, repetitive behaviors, and sensory processing difficulties.
It is important to note that autism can manifest differently in adults compared to children, and some individuals may have developed coping mechanisms or learned to live with their symptoms, which can make diagnosis challenging
Different Types of Autism in Adults
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in adults includes a range of conditions that affect behavior, communication, and social interactions. Here are some types of autism that may be observed in adults.
Classic Autism
The classic form of autism is characterized by challenges in social interactions, communication difficulties, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests.
Asperger’s syndrome
Asperger’s syndrome is considered a milder form of autism. If you have Asperger’s syndrome, then you may have average or above-average intelligence and may excel in specific areas of interest. However, you may often struggle with social skills and may exhibit repetitive behaviors.
Pervasive developmental disorder, not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS)
PDD-NOS is a term used to describe individuals who display some, but not all, of the symptoms of autism. It is often used when the symptoms do not fit the criteria for a specific autism diagnosis.
Rett syndrome
Rett syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that primarily affects females. It is characterized by severe cognitive and physical impairments, loss of purposeful hand skills, and the development of repetitive hand movements.
Autism Symptoms in Adults
Here are some detailed symptoms commonly associated with autism in adults.
Social difficulties:
Adults with autism may have difficulty interpreting social cues, understanding others’ thoughts and feelings, and maintaining conversations.
They may struggle with nonverbal communication, such as interpreting facial expressions or body language. They might avoid eye contact.
They may not understand certain social norms like not talking over people. They may get too close to others and get upset when someone comes close and tries to touch them.
An autistic adult may find it hard to make friends and prefer to stay alone.
Communication challenges
Adults with autism may find it challenging to understand and express themselves verbally. They may have difficulty interpreting sarcasm, irony, or figurative language. Some individuals may have a monotone or unusual speech pattern.
Emotional regulation difficulties
If you have autism, you may have trouble regulating your emotions. You may experience intense emotions or difficulty identifying and expressing feelings appropriately.
Repetitive behaviors
Repetitive behaviors are common in grown-up people with autism. These behaviors can include repetitive movements (e.g., hand flapping, rocking), adherence to strict routines, or a strong attachment to specific interests or topics.
Sensory sensitivities:
Many adults with autism have sensory processing difficulties. They may be hypersensitive or hyposensitive to sensory stimuli, such as sounds, lights, textures, or smells. This can lead to discomfort or distress in certain environments.
Autism symptoms in women and men:
As per NHS, UK, Autism symptoms can be different in men and women.
Most autistic women may
- Have learned how to hide the symptoms to fit in society. They may do so by copying people around them.
- They try and appear to cope better with any social situation.
- They may stay quiet and hide their feelings
- An autistic woman may successfully control their repetitive behavior.
Can MRI Detect Autism in Adults?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scans are not used as a definitive diagnostic tool for autism in adults. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is primarily diagnosed through comprehensive evaluations that assess your behavior, communication, and social interactions.
These evaluations are typically conducted by qualified healthcare professionals, such as psychologists or psychiatrists, who specialize in diagnosing autism.
The diagnostic process for autism in adults involves the following
1. Clinical interviews
Healthcare professionals will conduct interviews with you, and, if possible, gather information from family members or caregivers to understand your developmental history and current challenges.
2. Behavioral observations
Professionals may observe the individual’s behavior in various settings to assess autism symptoms.
Treatment of Autism in Adults
The treatment of autism in grown-up individuals typically involves a multidisciplinary approach tailored to the individual’s unique needs and challenges. Here are some common treatment options.
Behavioral and educational interventions
These interventions focus on improving social skills, communication abilities, and adaptive behaviors. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), social skills training, and vocational training are examples of interventions that may be utilized.
Medication
Medication may be prescribed to manage specific symptoms associated with autism, such as anxiety, depression, attention difficulties, or aggression. The choice of medication and dosage will depend on your specific needs and should be carefully monitored by a healthcare professional.
Supportive therapies
Additional therapies, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and sensory integration therapy, may be recommended to address specific challenges related to communication, motor skills, and sensory sensitivities.
Counseling and psychotherapy
Adult individuals with autism may benefit from counseling or psychotherapy to address emotional and psychological well-being, develop coping strategies, and manage anxiety or depression.
Support groups and community resources
If you get yourself engaged in support groups or access community resources, they can provide you with valuable support, information, and connections to others who share similar experiences.
Role of Medicoexperts in Adult Autism Care
MedicoExperts is a global virtual hospital that offers various medical treatments, including stem cell therapy, for conditions such as autism. MedicoExperts provides assistance in the treatment of adult autism through their specialized team of neurologists and stem cell therapists.
The specific role of MedicoExperts in adult autism treatment may include
1. Evaluation and consultation
MedicoExperts offers evaluations and consultations to assess the individual’s specific needs and determine the most appropriate treatment options.
2. Stem cell therapy
MedicoExperts provides stem cell therapy as a treatment option for autism. Stem cell therapy involves the use of stem cells to potentially promote the development of neuronal cells and form new circuits in the brain, which may help improve symptoms associated with autism.
3. Support and guidance
MedicoExperts offers support and guidance throughout the treatment process, providing information, answering questions, and assisting individuals and their families in navigating the treatment journey.
Conclusion
Understanding and supporting adults with autism is essential to help them lead a complete, and independent life.
Though all the focus is on children with autism, adults face unique and complex challenges of their own.
Each person’s experience is different, requiring tailored interventions such as therapies and vocational training.
To give them a better life, building inclusive communities is essential. Consider innovative therapies like stem cell treatment, which can offer new hope and pathways to improvement for both children and adults with autism.
FAQ :
Q1. What is the best treatment for autism in adults?
A. Stem cell Therapy is the best treatment for autism in adults
Q2. Can autism in adults be treated?
Yes, it can be treated by using a combined approach including stem cell therapy.
Q3. What is the biggest symptom of autism?
Autism has a variety of symptoms and often requires individualized treatment according to the occurring symptoms.
References
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/autism/signs/adults/
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9114801/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6204871/
