adult autism – Autism Connection of Pennsylvania

Black History Will Forever Be My History – By Joseph Smith, Autism Connection of PA Trustee

This month, we celebrate Black History. It is a time to remember the innovation and accomplishments of trailblazers in the United States. A lot of people are inquiring about why Black History Month is important. Here are some reasons from my point of view.

All of American history needs to be learned regardless of skin hue. There is too much division in this country. As a result, people of my hue are not getting recognition for the inventions and accomplishments they have made.
Studying Black History reminds us of the struggles of our ancestors so that we can better understand what we are going through and what they went through.
It opens us up to more issues that need to be discussed. We live in a critical age where we need to have uncomfortable conversations about race and disability.
We can make a difference by learning about race in our society. By learning Black History, we can better use Theory of Mind by being more sensitive to the needs of everyone.
The most important part of all is that Black History can’t be relegated to just one month. There are so many individuals breaking barriers every minute that need to be recognized.

Black History Month is canonical to American History. By studying Black History, we can obtain knowledge that can prevent us from repeating deleterious events. Together we can break barriers.

Joseph Smith
Autism Connection of PA Trustee; Giant Eagle employee, and Professional Photographer

SNAP: Bridging Friendships by Lydia Wayman and Zachary Miller

What is SNAP?

SNAP, officially known as the Spreading Neurodiversity Acceptance Project for Social Engagement, was conceived by Zachary A. Miller. This project was born out of a heartfelt mission: to establish an inclusive platform where neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals could stand together on equal ground, fostering a sense of unity and acceptance.

At its core, SNAP is all about community engagement through a diverse array of events and activities. They extend warm invitations to people of all backgrounds, embracing the rich tapestry of human experiences. From crafting a captivating mural that celebrates neurodiversity to organizing engaging egg hunts and immersive camp days, SNAP consistently delivers on its promise of inclusive joy.

Crucially, the magic of SNAP doesn’t stop at its events; it begins right at the heart of their organization. The dedicated leadership team, led by individuals like Lydia, plays a pivotal role in shaping the project’s vision and executing its mission. Lydia exemplifies the spirit of SNAP, where inclusivity, understanding, and creativity intersect.

Lydia’s Perspective

I’m an autistic adult who has spent my whole life in the Pittsburgh area. I have been involved in autism advocacy work since 2009, speaking at conferences, writing for a wide variety of publications, and working with organizations to develop courses, training programs and other resources. I’ve made incredible, lifelong friends through this work. But none of them live close enough to see in person more than once or twice a year at best. As involved as I am with the autism/autistic community, I still lack many local connections and social opportunities.

I heard about SNAP through an ad in the Autism Connection weekly newsletter in early 2023. It was about painting a mural celebrating neurodiversity that would hang in Benedum Hall. I love all kinds of arts and crafts and creative expression, so it sounded like something I’d enjoy. But I was nervous — I didn’t know who would be there or where Benedum Hall was, and I’ve never painted in any formal capacity. I wouldn’t have pursued the opportunity if my mom hadn’t also seen the ad and nudged me. I reached out to Zach by email to ask some questions that made me feel less anxious, as it helps if I know what to expect.

Photo of Lydia sitting outside in the sun smiling into the camera

Lydia Wayman

He responded quickly and with his typical friendly tone that makes everyone feel welcome and accepted. Come to a SNAP event and meet him, and you’ll see exactly what I mean!

We worked on the mural over several weekends, and I loved every minute of it. The artist who led us was a perfect fit for the project. The group had a wide range of ages and support needs, and she gave everyone jobs to do and presumed competence while still providing instruction and individual support. I liked that we were all helping and not just being handed the fun parts. It made it a true group effort, and the final product looks incredible.

After the mural, Zach asked if I wanted to join the SNAP leadership team. I readily accepted his offer and have served in the role of an autistic co-liaison since last spring, attending SNAP leadership meetings and help to plan and run events.

What Makes SNAP Distinct?

There are a few things that make SNAP different – why it’s a group I want to be a part of. A big reason for me is the inclusive nature of everything we do. Our events are designed to be as inclusive as possible, and we invite all ages, parents and siblings included. Everyone just gets treated like an individual. I’ve connected with all sorts of people at our events, and despite the leadership team being half of my age, they are fantastic people to work with and have fun with.

I’ve tried to make local connections with the disability community through activity-based groups in the past, but often, I felt forced to choose a side – either I had to be a participant with a disability, or I could be an organizer. Because I get overwhelmed easily, participating in groups can be hard, so I often prefer to help out. I think part of it is just that I know what’s going on, but I also have some unique skills to offer. But choosing to get involved as an organizer usually meant working with a team of people who aren’t used to making accommodations or allowing for support needs. Also, it meant not getting to enjoy the fun parts of the event.

With SNAP, I don’t have to explain what I can and can’t do, why I do or don’t need something. I don’t have to choose a side – I can just be myself, use my skills to help others, and have fun.

Join the fun!

Do you want to be a part of the fun? Many of our events are free to everyone! For more information throughout the year, sign up for our email list at the link HERE. We hope to see you in the future!

Background soapy bubbles with towels and soap in foreground

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:

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.
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.
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.
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.
Accommodate preferences: If they dislike traditional bathing methods, explore alternatives like sponge baths, using a washcloth, or taking a shower with less water pressure.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

two empty coffee cups on a red background

Bereft of Coffee

While waiting for the coffee to finish brewing in the office kitchenette, my eyes fixated on the stream of coffee entering the carafe and the tranquil sounds it made in anticipation of the final surge of steam as the brewing finished. This concentrated focus drowned out a number of elements that flooded the surroundings, flickering lights, multiple distant voices, phones ringing, and the general energy of movement within the maze of cubicles.

During the reverie, I saw a peripheral figure approaching to my left, and a soft, clear voice flowed into my ears, “Good morning! How are you?” and at that moment, I straightened and turned my entire torso toward the person asking the question, stopping like a machine that produced speech. I heard my own voice say, “I am bereft of coffee.” And all memory of the moments following would never gel in my mind because I could only fixate on my social ineptitude.

Bereft of coffee. Who says that? Did you even make eye contact?

Bereft

Bereft is not a word used often in everyday conversation. It’s a complex, haunting word that comes from bereave, a term of loss and mourning that communicates that something is lacking.

Yes. I looked up the use of the word “bereft” over time. It really took a dip in the 1940s and I’ll probably try to find out why.

In the morning kitchenette interaction, the thing that was lacking was coffee, and the choice of the word bereft in this specific case seems a bit dramatic. The word may also communicate on some level that I really want to interact on your terms, but I just don’t know how. It takes a great deal of concentration and sometimes the words just pour out and I wish I could collect them and rearrange them into something, well, “normal.”

The coworker who kindly asked the question was likely to think, “Well, that was an unusual response,” and the moment would vanish along with the multiple mundane things that occur in a nondescript workday. But for me, this common office interaction became a source of shame that lingered for months. This wave of embarrassment was probably unnecessary but it is something that people on the autism spectrum face when they are aware of basic communication differences that can sometimes lead to misunderstanding.

Full Cup

When we have people who truly understand communication differences, we find that they often see these types of interactions insightful, and sometimes endearing. While lamenting to a trusted coworker about my perceived social awkwardness, she said how lovely it was that I was able to express such a deep love for coffee, and in turn, a deep appreciation for words. Bereft is a beautiful word that can express longing for acceptance, and even longing for something comforting, like a cup of coffee.

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:

Social Communication Differences: Difficulty comprehending and utilizing nonverbal cues, challenges in sustaining conversations, and struggles with recognizing and expressing emotions
Sensory Sensitivities: Heightened sensitivity or aversion to specific sounds, sights, textures, tastes, or smells
Special Interests and Routines: Intense focus and extensive knowledge in particular areas of interest, accompanied by a preference for routines and consistency
Executive Functioning Challenges: Difficulties with organization, time management, planning, and flexible thinking
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:

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.
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.
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:

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.
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.
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]

How to Avoid Medication Mishaps

Carol Miller, RN/BSN, Director of Clinical Services at Achieva and Missy Knox, RN will talk about avoiding medication mishaps.

The presentation will:

Review questions to ask when starting a new medication
How to form good medication habits,
Medication storage, packaging, and disposal options
How to identify and react to medication emergencies

They will also briefly touch on genetic testing and how this may influence your medications, and there will be time for questions after the presentation.

This is a free virtual workshop, but registration is required. Register here.

no one is more cherished in this world than someone who lightens the burden of another. Thank you volunteers

Volunteer Appreciation Week 2023

Volunteers! Where would we be without you?

Your contributions of time, energy, and expertise have helped us in so many ways. From organizing events, providing support to families, raising awareness, and fundraising, you have been there for us every step of the way. Your hard work and dedication have enabled us to reach out to more people and provide them with the resources and support they need.

Photos of volunteers at events, fundraisers, and sensory friendly performances.

Your generosity and kindness have touched the hearts of many families in our community. Your willingness to lend a helping hand and be a source of comfort and support to those in need is truly remarkable. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed, and we are forever grateful for everything that you do.