Autism Therapy: adults with autism

definition of adults with autism: Many children with autism grow up to become adolescents and adults with autism. The transition to adulthood generally begins around the age of 14 when preparation for adulthood begins. Adults with autism may be
high-functioning (leading relatively normal lives) or low-functioning (needing constant care). One program that helps children make the transition to adulthood is Fast Forward.

No Factsheets to Display

Effective Methylphenidate Treatment of an Adult Aspergers Syndrome and a Comorbid ADHD: A Clinical Investigation with fMRI
Journal of Attention Disorders, by Roy, M., Dillo W., Bessling S., Emrich HE, and Ohlmeier MD, published in 2009, summarized Nov 9, 2010

Methylphenidate may help adults who are diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Asperger syndrome.

This case study presents an adult patient with ADHD and Aspergers syndrome. The 26-year old man had had problems since childhood with making and keeping social contacts. The authors note that when an adult has both ADHD and Aspergers syndrome the case may be complex and hard to diagnose. This is because both ADHD and Aspergers syndrome may result in poor social skills and lack of attention. In the case of this patient, treatment with methylphenidate improved his ability to function and reduced his ADHD symptoms.


Sensory Processing in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism, by Crane, L., Goddard L., and Pring L., published in 2009, summarized Oct 19, 2010

Sensory processing disorder may persist in adults with autism and perhaps should be addressed with treatment.

The aim of this study was to see if sensory processing disorder was common in adults with autism. This study compared levels of sensory processing in adults with autism with an age and IQ score matched group using a self-report measure of sensory processing (Adult/Adolescent Sensory Profile – AASP). The authors found that adults with autism report high levels of sensory response compared to the control group. This is in contrast to a study that found that sensory processing issues decreased as children with autism became adults. The authors note that people with autism varied quite a bit with regards to their sensory processing disorder.


Enhanced Independence and Quality of Life Through Treatment with Flotation-Restricted Environmental Stimulation Technique of a Patient with Both Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Asperger Syndrome: A Case Report
Cases Journal, by Edebol, H., Kjellgren A., Bood S. - A., and Norlander T., published in 2009, summarized Sep 7, 2010

Flotation tanks may be a useful tool for calming the nervous system and helping with sensory integration in adults with Asperger syndrome and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

This case study describes an adult with Asperger syndrome and ADHD who was treated with flotation-Restricted Environmental Stimulation Technique (flotation-REST). The 36-year old woman from Sweden also had depression. She was given 19 sessions over a year and at the end felt that she was better able to live life on her own. With time she learned to control how alert she was (arousal control). She also learned to control how active she was (activity regulation). Her senses relaxed and she became better at sensory integration.


Use of Peer-mediated Interventions in the Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review
Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, by Chan, JM, R Lang, Rispoli M., O’Reilly M., Sigafoos J., and Cole H., published in 2009, summarized Sep 2, 2010

Peer-mediated intervention (PMI) may be very helpful for children with autism, and a strong research base supports use of PMI.

This review article was designed to describe all research in which therapy for children with autism was performed by the child’s peers. The review covered 42 studies that used PMI in the treatment of people with autism. Many of the studies did not measure whether or not the studied treatment plan was followed by the peers. Some studies did ask the questions: Did the treatment occur for at least 10 minutes? Are there at least 1 or 2 peers in the treatment? Was an adult there to watch the session? The authors note that future studies should focus on what level of PMI can be performed by children at each age.


Showing 1-4 of 85 results

Benjamin’s Hope Will Provide Interactive Community for Families with Autism

May 2, 2012

Benjamin’s Hope in Holland Michigan will be a living, recreational, and educational space for people with autism. Founder Krista Mason, whose son was diagnosed with autism, envisions a place that will support 300-500 people a week. The center will include 24 residential spots in six cottages, as well as equestrian trails, community center, and gardening area. Applications to live at Benjamin’s Hope have come from around the world; six of the 24 residential spots will be offered to low-income adults at a reduced rate. Benjamin’s Hope has broken ground and continues to raise funds.

Read more: Benjamin's Hope Begins Construction on Campus for Those with Autism with Prayers


Breakthrough Offers Community Living for Adults with Autism

Apr 20, 2012

Breakthrough, in Knoxville, is a community for adults with autism. Breakthrough consists of six homes and caregivers around the clock. There, residents can learn daily living skills and gain independence from their families. The founders understand there is a growing need for independent living communities as the autism population gets older. The eventual goal for Breakthrough is a large community with a community center, recreational activities, and day services. They are modeling themselves on a retirement community, Tellico Village.

Read original article: Knoxville Community for Adults with Autism Hopes to Expand


Robotics Company Seeks to Improve Lives of Children with Autism

Apr 18, 2012

Movia Robotics got started helping kids with autism when founder Timothy Gifford’s wife told him schools needed tools to help kids in the classroom. The robots provide social cues to the kids by using external sensors. The robots are predictable and repetitive so that children can learn responses to social situations that involve real people. Gifford explained, “We're trying to improve their quality of life by giving them basic skills," he says, "and through these skills giving them a way to better interact in the world with kids and adults.”

Read original article: Hartford Firm's Robotic System Helps Children Manage Autism


Riding Therapy Organization Gets New Space

Apr 6, 2012

The Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy (SMART), which offers equine therapy to kids with autism and other special needs has moved to a larger space. The 15 horses have room to roam on 23 acres that includes two barns, a house, pond, swimming pool, and riding fields. At SMART, kids and adults are assisted onto their horses and then perform certain exercises. For example, riders might put their hands on their hips or grab a ring off a hook. All exercises are designed to help with strength, balance, and motion. One special trail is used for sensory work; horseback riders brush by chimes and ride by lovely smelling herbs. Plans for expansion include fishing in the pond, gardening therapy, and physical therapy space.

Read original article: Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy Holds Open House to Show Off New Digs


Showing 1-4 of 103 results


Please comment on this autism topic.

Responding to weighted vest

Aug 25, 2011 by Anonymous

 My young adult son hiked the entire Appalachian trail a few years ago--form Ga to Maine--over 7 months --carrying a 40 plus pound back pack.  He was calm, relaxed and maintained a positive mood as the hike continued.  He was able to stop his Ablilfy meds while hiking and lost 40 pounds of excess weight.  He self reports that he gained spiritual insight, confidence, and trust in his fellow humans.  His comment was that he only met two people he didn't like--out of the hundreds he encountered.  Based on Joe's experience, I believe hiking is a wonderful non-competitive activity for some high functining young adults on the spectrum. The weight bearing and steady movement in generally quiet and natural settings agreed with Joe.  He  had never hiked and never pitched a tent--but  with the support of an experienced hiking partner, he made his way over 2,000 miles of hard mountainous terrain--an amazing accomplishment for anyone--and a phenomenal one for Joe.


anxiety disorders.

Aug 14, 2011 by Joe Barry

Panic attacks are becoming increasingly common among cosmopolitan adults today. In this context, you should know that panic attacks causes differ from one person to another. However, there are some common reasons for anxiety disorders.


Responding to Mneme Therapy

May 26, 2011 by Anonymous

Documented testimonials show that MnemeTherapy® can create dramatic improvements in all persons with issues of the brain including children and adults on the autistic spectrum, individuals with Alzheimer's disease, strokes, brain trauma and other related disorders. These changes in the brain include improved verbal skills (or new verbal skills) mobility, decrease or ceasing to be combative, spatial awareness (restored body map), understanding and following instructions, and connecting socially with others.


http://artwithoutboundaries.net/Testimonies.html


MnemeTherapist operate their own private practice and are listed by location on the Art Without Boundaries Association website: http://artwithoutboundaries.net/MemberIndex.html


Thank You

Mar 23, 2011 by steveborgman

Thanks for the great information about parents pulling together to advocate for their adult children.  There is so much information out regarding children on the autism spectrum, but not a lot about services and transition processes for adults on the autism spectrum.

Stephen Borgman, Prosper With Aspergers


Showing 1-4 of 38 results

Please comment on adults with autism or other autism therapy topics.

  • Factsheet
  • Research
  • News
  • Comments.
    • Synonyms for adults with autism include: adult, adult with autism, adulthood, adults, Fast Forward, young adult, young adults
    Share |