Older Adults and Autism Spectrum Conditions: An Introduction And Guide

The first book to look seriously at the practical issues facing older adults with autism spectrum conditions (ASC), Wenn Lawson's ground-breaking handbook offers support, advice, and sensible ways in which to look at the issues.

Informed by current research, interviews with older people diagnosed with ASC and his own experience, the author covers a multitude of issues including:

• dealing with transitions and changes to routine
• communicating an individual's particular needs and wishes to care home staff
• the social and financial impact of retirement
• mental health
• sensory and physical changes and challenges.

Older people with ASC and their family and friends, as well as the professionals supporting them, will find this an indispensable and accessible book.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements.

Taking the road well-travelled.

Foreword. Carol Povey.

Introduction. Ageing and ASC: The definition of autism spectrum conditions (ASC) and ageing.

1. Ageing in ASC: Stress Support needs due to memory changes and changes in daily living.
2. Ageing in ASC and building appropriate communication strategies.
3. Ageing in ASC: Working with personality.
4. Ageing in ASC: supporting seniors to identify their own feelings, thoughts and actions.
5. Ageing in ASC: Support for seniors in transition.
6. Ageing in ASC: preparing our future, ameliorating/avoiding loneliness.
7. Ageing in ASC: Dual diagnosis and Mental Health.
8. Ageing in ASC: Ageing comfortably. Creativity and Spirituality.