A proportion of autistic adults lead independent, self-reliant lifestyles. This is confirmed, among other things, by a study of people with ASD aged 22-46, with average cognitive abilities. The researchers found that 50% of the subjects were functioning well. Of this group, half were in full or part-time employment. However, only 12% lived independently and 56% lived with their parents.
What are the symptoms of autism in adults? Well-functioning adults with autism can be successful in their field of interest. However, they still encounter difficulties in social interactions. These manifest themselves in, for example, a lack of freedom in conversations or an unnatural way of speaking and gesticulating. Further symptoms of autism in adults include a lack of empathy and excessive openness and frankness in statements. Although they are truthful, they can offend. Poorly functioning adults with ASD require lifelong care and support from others.
Diagnosis in an autistic adult
There are also autistics who do not receive a diagnosis until adulthood. The diagnosis proves to be a turning point in their biography. The reason for an adult to seek a diagnosis may be, for example, a diagnosis of autism in a child, a referral from a specialist or a desire to clarify their emotional, relational or professional problems. Such individuals, as a prelude to a professional diagnosis, can take the simple adult autism test AQ (The Autism-Spectrum Quotient) themselves.
Source:
- https://www.damian.pl/zdrowie-psychiczne/autyzm/
