Adult Autism Too

We are on a journey of progress that involves moving beyond autistic stereotypes and ignorance. The journey can be long and wearying sometimes, but we must see it through until there is no need for reminders.

The neurodiverse community is broad and expansive. Inclusion in its purest form goes beyond preconceived ideas and general assumptions. There is the belief that ability is best served in environments where it can grow and thrive.

There are companies that are gripped with fear at the idea of hiring autistic employees. They are so afraid of what will go wrong, rather than being open to hiring a great worker and terrific person.

Autism bias is real and often hinders progress. Organizations can become so steeped in traditions that they fail to change, even when hitting the “reset” is painfully obvious. Having more autistic people serve on the boards of directors of community-based nonprofits could benefit agencies and their clients.

Autistic adults have an advantage in seeing differences that can lead to more efficient outcomes. That is why neurotypicals need to have patience and wisdom when engaging with autistic adults. Sometimes they have the solutions to problems that others simply can't see.

Even when there is no ill intent, taking a rigid position to make decisions for autistic individuals, adults in particular, without dialogue can be viewed as patronizing. Care must be taken not to dismiss unseen qualities that are powerful and life changing.

We must have different experiences and thoughts to reflect the ideals of inclusivity and tolerance. The very idea of excluding those most deeply affected from meaningful dialogue is extremely authoritarian.

Research indicates that most decision making that relates to autistic adults takes place without consulting with adults with autism. This is a shocking revelation. What may appear as inconsequential to others has significance to many people with autism and other diagnoses.

It's dangerous to exclude autistic adults from policy making decisions that directly impact their lives. One of the most important reasons is getting the research and implementation of new ideas wrong. For example, we currently have children based autism models in place that attempt to address autistic adult issues. Those models are outdated and no longer applicable for the complex needs of autistic adults.

There is no denying the impact artificial intelligence has on the autism community. Improvements include broader diagnostics, enhanced communication, adaptive learning tools, and the promotion of independent living skills. However, all is not well in the world of AL as it relates to autism. There is a sharp underrepresentation of autistic adult involvement at the policy development and decision making levels. The gates to full inclusion must be opened before ethical change can occur.