Adults with developmental disorders like Asperger’s or Autism sometimes suffer from medical issues such as fits or seizures as well as communication difficulties, social anxiety, repetitive behaviours, sleep issues, learning disabilities and developmental delays.
People with Asperger’s or Autism are usually highly intelligent and enjoy taking part in activities that appeal to their interests, however, they may find other aspects of life very challenging, due to the symptoms of the disorder. There may be difficulties with social interactions and communication, with sudden outbursts of anger or emotion that are hard to manage. There may be behavioural problems, physical aggression, repetitive actions and a lack of empathy for others. As a result, people with Asperger’s or Autism often need special care such as a supported living service specialised in supporting Aspergers, to help meet their needs and assist them in day-to-day life to manage their daily living skills to the best of their abilities.
What can supported living offer?
As people with Autism vary greatly in the level of support needed, some people may need little support, some more specialised support and some may require 24-hour care. In a supported living scheme, individuals will be able to live independently, with specialist staff support on hand should it be needed. They are a combination of suitable accommodation, which may even be the person’s own home, with a member of staff available to help with anything from personal care to help with hobbies and interests.
It can be a challenge to support someone with Autism, which is why supported living services can be such a help. There are specialised services  with a professional therapeutic team that provide additional support for Asperger’s who can help the individual with their difficulties in a safe environment while providing the necessary care and attention they may require
The benefits of supported living
- Round-the-clock support is provided by trained professionals. This means should the individual require help with a task at any time of the day or night, there will always be someone available to provide support, whatever the issue.
- Supported living staff will communicate with the family of the individual, as well as any local authorities, employers, educators or activity providers involved, ensuring the right structured and adequate package of care is provided at all times.
- Support plans will be developed as part of their care pathway with the guided input of the individual’s carers or family, meaning that there are documented care plans supporting the strategies tailored to the individual.
- Staff are professionally trained and dedicated to their roles, using their extensive expertise to help improve daily living for the individual, offering behaviour support as well as care.
- Staff and services are constantly monitored, and training is provided regularly, to ensure services improve all the time.
Supported living for people with Autism and Asperger’s can be life-changing. The individual is treated and respected as a capable human being and the focus is completely person-centred. Compassion and understanding are given at all times and this level of care ensures that any individual can not only live a normal life but positively thrive in supported living service.
