Living With Adult Autism

One of the biggest fears of parents with children with autism is looming adulthood and all that it entails. In her new book Susan Senator takes the mystery out of adult life on the autism spectrum and conveys the positive message that even though autism adulthood is complicated and challenging, there are many ways to make it manageable and enjoyable. From her own son with autism, now twenty-five, she has learned “never say never.” Autism Adulthood features thirty interviews with autistic adults, their parents, caregivers, researchers, and professionals. Each vignette reveals firsthand a family’s challenge, their circumstances, their thought processes, and their unique solutions and plans of action. Sharing the wisdom that emerges from parents’ and self-advocates’ experiences, Senator adds her own observations and conclusions based on her long-term experience with autism. Told in Senator’s trademark warm, honest, and approachable style, Autism Adulthood paints a vivid and thought-provoking picture of many people grappling with grown-up, real-life autism. Senator’s is the only book of its kind, as real families share their stories and their creative solutions.

Being diagnosed with autism as an adult can be disorienting and isolating; however, if you can understand the condition and how it affects perceptions, relationships, and your relationship with the world in general, a happy and successful life is attainable. Through an introduction to the autism spectrum, and how the Level 1 diagnosis is characterised, the author draws on personal experiences to provide positive advice on dealing with life, health, and relationships following an adult diagnosis. The effect of autism on social skills is described with tips for dealing with family and personal relationships, parenting, living arrangements, and employment. Important topics include disclosure, available resources, and options for different therapeutic routes. On reading this book, you will learn a lot more about the autism spectrum at Level 1, be able to separate the facts from the myths, and gain an appreciation of the strengths of autism, and how autism can affect many aspects of everyday life. Drawing from the author's lived experience, this book is an essential guide for all newly diagnosed adults on the autism spectrum, their families and friends, and all professionals new to working with adults with ASDs.

"Living with Adult Autism: A Guide for Autistic Adults and Their Families" is intended to provide a comprehensive resource to navigate the complexities of adult autism. The book aims to demystify autism spectrum disorder (ASD), debunk common misconceptions, and offer practical guidance for living and thriving with ASD. Our purpose is two-fold. Firstly, we aim to empower autistic adults with strategies to manage daily life, build successful relationships, establish fulfilling careers, and maintain physical and mental wellbeing. Secondly, we strive to provide families, friends, and caregivers with insights and tools to support their autistic loved ones effectively. This guide emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance, self-advocacy, and the pursuit of individual strengths and passions. It stands as an affirmation that living with autism is not about 'overcoming' or 'fixing' oneself but about understanding and embracing one's unique neurology. By fostering greater understanding and acceptance of adult autism, we hope to contribute to a world where neurodiversity is valued and respected.

This book guides people on the autism spectrum through each step of their transition into adulthood and will give them the confidence, support, and guidance they need to experience life on their own.--

Describes and suggests concrete ways to deal with challenges that may arise in areas of both daily life and love, covering everything from grocery shopping to getting along better with family members. Understanding the special relationship between self-esteem and success at independence, the author's advice is based very purposefully on autistic strengths, and reflects the belief and hope that autistic adults can both contribute to and enjoy all life has to offer.--From publisher description.

This book shows that with appropriate lifelong care, it is possible for those with neurodevelopmental disabilities to achieve supported independence and fulfilling adult lives. It provides a guide for parents on how to prepare their children for adulthood, and describes in detail the kinds of services people with ASDs need to live independently.

Navigating the "neurotypical" world with Asperger syndrome or high-functioning autism (AS/HFA) can be extremely stressful. But by understanding the specific ways your brain works differently--and how to tap into your personal strengths--you can greatly enhance your well-being. In this wise and practical book, experienced therapist Valerie L. Gaus helps you identify goals that will make your life better and take concrete steps to achieve them. Grounded in psychological science, the techniques in this book help you: *Learn the unspoken rules of social situations.*Improve your communication skills.*Get organized at home and at work.*Manage anxiety and depression.*Strengthen your relationships with family and friends.*Live more successfully on your own or with others. A wealth of stories, questionnaires, worksheets, and concrete examples help you find personalized solutions to problems you are likely to encounter. You can download and print additional copies of the worksheets for repeated use. Of special note, the Introduction was updated in 2017 with the latest information on how autism spectrum disorder is defined in DSM-5. Finally, a compassionate, knowledgeable, positive guide to living well on the spectrum.

*********Living with Adult Autism: A Guide for Autistic Adults and Their Families************ Living with Adult Autism: A Guide for Autistic Adults and Their Families is an empowering and comprehensive self-help guide that serves as an invaluable resource for adults navigating life on the autism spectrum and the people who support them. This book is specially designed to help those managing autism in adulthood. It's a practical handbook that addresses the unique challenges adult autism presents, but more importantly, it also celebrates the exceptional qualities autistic adults possess. At the heart of Living with Adult Autism is the belief that understanding adult autism is the key to not only coping with it but also appreciating the richness and potential it brings to life. This guide provides a thorough overview of the autism spectrum, diving deep into the intricacies and traits of adult autism, unmasking myths, and presenting real-life examples to foster better understanding. Designed as a practical handbook for adult autism, this book equips readers with life skills and strategies for managing daily life. From choosing the right career path and handling workplace interactions, to navigating mental health concerns and understanding the role of various health professionals, this guide empowers individuals with autism to take control of their lives. The chapters on understanding social cues and conventions, along with building and maintaining relationships, are filled with practical strategies. These offer a fresh perspective on social situations and interactions, helping individuals with autism build strong, fulfilling relationships. One unique aspect of Living with Adult Autism is its focus on the importance of self-care. It offers practical strategies that autistic adults can integrate into their daily routines to maintain their overall well-being. From mental health to physical health, this guide provides a holistic approach to self-care and personal development. A separate section in this guide is dedicated to families supporting autistic adults. It provides crucial insights into the experiences of autistic adults, equipping family members with tools to offer understanding and compassionate support. This family guide to adult autism presents practical tips on effective communication, creating a supportive environment, and long-term care. The book also delves into the emotional realm, offering an overview of common emotional challenges and teaching techniques for managing emotions. Each section is illustrated with real-life examples, making the learning process engaging and relatable. This guide for autistic adults is more than just a book - it's a lifeline for those seeking to understand and navigate adult autism, and for families who want to support their loved ones effectively. Living with Adult Autism: A Guide for Autistic Adults and Their Families is the comprehensive and practical guide you need. If you're looking for an autism in adults and family support book that offers real solutions, practical advice, and compassionate understanding, then this book is for you. Embark on a journey of understanding, acceptance, and growth with Living with Adult Autism: A Guide for Autistic Adults and Their Families. Together, let's celebrate the unique and enriching experiences that adult autism brings to our lives.