Care and mobility considerations

Autistic spectrum disorder and normal or above average intelligence

Some people with high functioning autism will have care and mobility needs. Others will have lower levels of need and are likely to be able to deal with self care and bodily functions, and to be able to prepare a simple meal. Some will live independently; some will need a more structured environment within a family, or with support from carers. A structured routine organized by another person may be important in enabling them to maintain personal hygiene and proper nutrition. Assistance with communication may be needed in some situations. For example some people would be unable to cope with a domestic emergency, or major change of routine. In such situations they might need help in communicating with strangers or outside organizations.

Autistic spectrum disorder with mild to moderate learning disability

Within this grouping there will be a wide spectrum of disabling effects that may require help from others. Some will live in supported accommodation and some will live at home, usually with carers. They are likely to need help or encouragement to wash, dress, prepare food etc. They may need to be advised to wear clothes appropriate to the season and to eat a varied and nutritious diet. It may be necessary to discourage aimless and repetitive behaviours and to encourage participation in appropriate activities. Some may be vulnerable to financial and sexual exploitation. Medication may need to be given and supervised. They often need help to communicate with others e.g. unfamiliar people, to avoid social isolation and to deal with correspondence and financial matters. Some may need to be watched over to prevent damage to surroundings or maintain a safe environment, and to discourage challenging behaviour. The care provided allows them to live within a structured environment and routine, whereby they are able to maximise their abilities to carry out tasks of daily living.

They are often likely to need guidance in both familiar and unfamiliar places, even if they are able to manage short trips on known routes e.g. to a local shop. Some may be vulnerable to exploitation or exhibit disturbed or anti social behaviour when out. Communication with strangers may pose great difficulty, and they would be unable to ask for help or directions, or to respond to directions in a meaningful fashion.

Some individuals may have difficulty communicating with others when out of doors. They may show unusual or unacceptable behaviour such as shouting, for example, if routine journeys are disrupted or altered.

Autistic spectrum disorder with severe learning disability

Many adults with this degree of impairment will live in supported or residential accommodation with a high degree of help and support from care workers. Some will live at home with family. They will need help with most aspects of personal care to maintain nutrition and prevent self neglect. Attention will be required to discourage repetitive or aimless behaviours, and to encourage participation in appropriate activities. They may need watching over to prevent potentially dangerous behaviours or activities such as running off, or to deal with disruptive or challenging behaviour. Associated problems like epilepsy or other physical disabilities will increase the requirement for help and supervision including the administration of medication.

The ability to walk is likely to be unimpeded in the absence of neuromuscular problems affecting the lower limbs. But they will be unable to find their way out of doors without help from some one else.

Amended April 2008