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Category: Adult Autism Diagnosis

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Autism Guide for Bathing and Showering

Helping an autistic adult who is struggling with bathing can be a gradual and patient process. Here are some strategies to provide support and encourage personal hygiene:

  1. Understand their sensory needs: Sensory sensitivities can make the bathing experience uncomfortable or overwhelming. Take note of any specific sensory triggers and try to minimize them. For example, they might prefer a certain water temperature or specific bathing products.
  2. Establish a consistent routine: Set up a daily or weekly bathing schedule to create predictability and structure. Routines help them know what to expect, and knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety. 
  3. Visual supports: Use visual schedules or step-by-step picture cards to help them through the bathing process. Visual aids can provide clear instructions and reduce anxiety about what comes next.
  4. Gradual exposure: If the person is anxious about bathing, start with short sessions and gradually increase the duration over time. Offer positive reinforcement and praise for each successful attempt.
  5. Accommodate preferences: If they dislike traditional bathing methods, explore alternatives like sponge baths, using a washcloth, or taking a shower with less water pressure.
  6. Incorporate special interests: Integrate their special interests or favorite activities into the bathing routine to make it more enjoyable. For example, if they love a specific toy or sensory item, allow them to bring it into the bath.
  7. Choice and control: Offer choices within the bathing process. Allow them to choose the soap or shampoo scent, the bathrobe they want to wear afterward, or the time of day they prefer to bathe.
  8. Use social stories: Create social stories or videos that depict the importance of personal hygiene and the benefits of bathing. Social stories can be an effective way to explain new or challenging concepts in a relatable manner.
  9. Create a sensory-friendly bathroom: Make the bathroom a comfortable and calming space. Use soft lighting, add sensory elements like scented candles or essential oils, and provide familiar and preferred towels and bath products.
  10. Modeling and participation: Show the individual that bathing is a regular part of daily life by modeling the behavior. Consider taking baths or showers together initially to provide support and encouragement.
  11. Offer rewards: Consider implementing a simple reward system for successful bathing attempts. This could be earning tokens for each bath, which can later be exchanged for preferred items or activities.
  12. Seek professional support: If the challenges persist, consult with professionals, such as occupational therapists, who specialize in working with individuals with autism. They can provide personalized strategies and support.

More guidance and videos available on Autism Self Care.

Remember, each person is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient, understanding, and flexible in your approach, and celebrate any progress, no matter how small. Building a trusting and supportive relationship is key to helping the autistic adult feel more comfortable with the bathing process.

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Identifying Autism in Adults

The autism spectrum is broad, varying features that are sometimes difficult to recognize on the surface. Some adults may have lived their lives without a full awareness that some of the barriers and struggles they have faced are a result of undiagnosed autism. Reports include those who have been stunned by the direct question, “When were you diagnosed with autism?” Other reports specify experiencing difficulty understanding social interactions, difficulty with tolerating textures, changes in routines, and being genuinely dumbfounded by other people’s seemingly insensitive perspectives and behavior. Those reporting range in ages from 20 to 64 years old.

At Autism Connection of PA, Chrisoula manages hundreds of calls, emails, and website contact entries each month. She offers suggestions to adults who want to identify the signs of adult autism, getting diagnosis, and finding support and resources.

-TLM

Identifying Signs of Autism in Adults

While autism is commonly associated with childhood, it is crucial to acknowledge that many people may remain undiagnosed until later in life. Some prevalent signs and characteristics that may indicate autism in adults include:

  1. Social Communication Differences: Difficulty comprehending and utilizing nonverbal cues, challenges in sustaining conversations, and struggles with recognizing and expressing emotions
  2. Sensory Sensitivities: Heightened sensitivity or aversion to specific sounds, sights, textures, tastes, or smells
  3. Special Interests and Routines: Intense focus and extensive knowledge in particular areas of interest, accompanied by a preference for routines and consistency
  4. Executive Functioning Challenges: Difficulties with organization, time management, planning, and flexible thinking
  5. Social Interaction Difficulties: Feeling overwhelmed in social situations, experiencing difficulties in establishing and maintaining friendships, and struggling to grasp social nuances

Pursuing a Diagnosis

If you suspect that you may have autism or exhibit some of the aforementioned signs, it is important to seek a formal diagnosis. Here are the steps you can take:

  1. Educate Yourself: Acquire knowledge about autism in adults and familiarize yourself with the diagnostic process. Learn about common traits and characteristics associated with autism. Weekly e-news covers a range of topics. 
  2. Consult Professionals: Reach out to healthcare providers, psychologists, or diagnosticians who specialize in assessing autism in adults. They can guide you through the evaluation process.
  3. Diagnostic Assessment: The assessment typically involves interviews, questionnaires, and observations to evaluate your social, communication, and behavioral patterns. The goal is to gain a comprehensive understanding of your experiences and determine whether autism is an appropriate diagnosis.

Support and Resources

Following a diagnosis, people with autism can access various forms of support to enhance their well-being and quality of life. Here are some beneficial resources:

  1. Therapy and Counseling: Engage in individual or group therapy sessions with professionals experienced in working with adults on the autism spectrum. Therapy can focus on developing social skills, regulating emotions, and addressing specific challenges.
  2. Skill Development Programs: Seek out programs that offer training in areas such as executive functioning, communication, and social skills, tailored to the specific needs of adults with autism.
  3. Support Groups and Communities: Connect with local or online support groups where you can meet others who share similar experiences. These groups provide opportunities to share insights, receive emotional support, and connect with others on a similar journey. We offer several support groups for you to join!

Recognizing signs of autism in adulthood, pursuing a diagnosis, and accessing support are crucial steps toward understanding oneself and navigating life with autism. By staying informed, seeking professional guidance, and utilizing appropriate resources, autistic people can embark on a path of self-acceptance, growth, and fulfillment. Remember, Autism Connection of Pennsylvania is here to support you every step of the way.

–Chrisoula Perdziola, Resource Specialist

[email protected]