What happens to people with autism when they grow up?

Since autism is a spectrum and people have varying skill levels, future is not the same for all people with autism. A lot of children who are able to cope with mainstream school /college education go undiagnosed and are successful at jobs but may be considered quiet or reserved adults by their family, friends and colleagues.

Several adults on the spectrum who have been diagnosed, and been in a supportive environment in their childhood, have written books which have facilitated and enhanced the understanding of the condition. We have examples of people who are professionally very successful. Some have gone on to become famous authors and at least one has won a Nobel Prize. Some advocate and speak for themselves and for other people with autism in the community.

Some of those who are fully independent in their everyday life may find it difficult to sustain the demands of a job and work environment. Some are married and some choose not to.

Some of those who are married face difficulties in forming relationships with their spouses and carry out responsibilities that come with marriage and having a family, and may continue to need support of another person in planning and carrying out the activities in running a house.

As in every other condition, some people on the spectrum will always need support in life and may never be fully independent. As yet, in India, there are few schools which have an environment or the attitude to accommodate the special needs of people on the autism spectrum. Vocational centers and employment opportunities are even fewer.

For most parents struggling with getting services for their child with autism, one of the biggest worry is‘what after us?’ As yet, there are not enough and appropriate lifespan services for people with autism where they can lead a life of dignity and respect.

However, with support from people around them including the family, friends, neighbours and teachers all of them can lead a happy and meaningful life.