Autism is a lifelong developmental condition often described as a spectrum because it affects people in various ways and to different degrees. Asperger’s syndrome is a form of autism. Both conditions share similar symptoms.
Keep reading to learn more about the similarities and differences between autism and Asperger’s syndrome.
At Liaise, we provide high-quality care and support to people with a wide range of support needs empowering them to live happy and purposeful lives. Contact our friendly team to learn more about our supported living and residential community-based homes.
About Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental conditions that affect the way a person experiences the world and communicates with other people. People with autism see, hear and feel the world around them differently than others.
Living with autism does not mean you have an illness or disease. It is not a medical condition with treatments and a ‘cure’. It simply means that your brain works differently than other people’s. Like a learning disability, autism is a lifelong condition.
Autism is a spectrum condition meaning that it affects people in different ways. There is no ‘typical’ person with autism. Every individual with autism will have their own unique interests, strengths, goals and needs. Some will live and work independently while others may require greater support to lead the lives they want to lead.
In the UK, more than 1 in 100 people are on the autism spectrum and there are around 700,000 adults and children living with autism.
What is it Like Living with Autism?
Because autism is a spectrum disorder, each person will have their own distinct set of strengths and challenges. Below is a list of some common symptoms experienced by people with autism:
- Differences in the way they communicate, understand and use language
- Repetitive or restrictive behaviour
- Over or under-sensitivity to a wide range of stimuli
- Highly focused interests or hobbies
- Anxiety around social situations
- Differences in their attention and how they learn
About Asperger’s Syndrome
Asperger’s syndrome is a neurodivergent condition that is part of the larger developmental disorder category of autism spectrum disorder. It was once considered to be a “mild” or “high-functioning” form of autism, however these are not diagnostic terms.
Today, Asperger’s syndrome is technically no longer a diagnosis on its own although the term is still commonly used. Many people previously diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome feel it is part of their identity and still refer to their diagnosis in this way.
Just like with autism, not all people with Asperger’s exhibit the same symptoms or experience the world in the same way. There is a wide range of behaviours and experiences that are considered to fall under the umbrella of an Asperger’s diagnosis, many of which overlap with the symptoms experienced by people with autism.
Autism vs. Asperger’s: What are the Differences?
The principal difference between autism and Asperger’s is that the latter may experience milder symptoms and fewer language delays. People with Asperger’s may not require as much day-to-day support as others on the spectrum, but this will vary between people.
It is often due to these differences that children with autism are diagnosed earlier than their peers with Asperger’s. This is because children with autism may experience greater difficulties with language at an early age, leading to an earlier diagnosis.
Specialist Support for Autism and Asperger’s
At Liaise, we empower people with autism, Asperger’s and other varied and complex conditions through person-centred support and community-based living.
Through our residential care homes and supported living services, people with autism and Asperger’s can learn, work and create lifelong friendships in a positive, structured environment.
Since we support a wide range of ages and abilities, each Liaise home has its own distinct character and personality. We offer a range of thoughtful services and activities designed to promote not just self-confidence and independence but fun and joyfulness as well.
Our staff receives intensive training to ensure they feel confident in supporting people with autism, Asperger’s and other associated complex needs. Our teams have the knowledge and experience to help people with autism and Asperger’s develop independent life skills, improve communication and resolve any environmental issues.
We believe that with the right dedicated support in place, people with autism and Asperger’s can lead life their way with greater independence, joy and purpose.
Learn More About Residential Care and Supported Living
Our mission is to enrich the lives of people with autism and Asperger’s and support them in living happy, purposeful lives.
We are here to provide guidance and support to you and your family. To learn more about our support living and support residential care services, do not hesitate to contact our friendly team.
