Autism is a neurological disorder that affects the way in which the individual interacts and communicates with others. If elders are not familiar with autism signs, they may not know how to deal with it and what behavior towards the person would be considered as offensive.
People, especially parents, must know how to recognize the traits of autism in individuals. If they are not familiar with autism and its symptoms, they may not know how to recognize and deal with the disorder.
Individuals with autism find trouble connecting to people, making eye contact and often withdraw themselves in solitary. They may seem uninterested in relating or communicating with family members. Some of them love to keep talking repetitively about a subject they are obsessed with. This can push people away. This adverse behavior of people often creates a misunderstanding in individuals with autism: “You don’t like me?”
No two individuals with autism have similar issues regarding language and social skills. Some of the guidelines that can help ensure that communication goes as smoothly as possible are:
- Show patience when listening: Being an active listener is important when interacting with individuals living with autism. It is advisable to let them know that they are loved and cared for by others. Ask them more questions to understand what he/she wants to convey.
- Address him/her as an adult, not as a child: Do not assume that individuals with autism have limited cognitive skills. Their disabilities are language-based where they understand every word, but have difficulty while responding verbally.
- Be clear while talking: When interacting with someone having autism, be clear and concise. Avoid the use of slang language and sarcasm. This type of communication cannot be easily understood by them and create confusion.
- Treat them with respect: Some individuals with autism react adversely to a hug or a pat as they do not like to be touched. One should respect their feelings and offer them personal space. Avoid physical affection!
- Show love and interest: Individuals with autism have trouble displaying their feelings and are unsure whether they are loved by their elders. People must go out of the way to shower them with love, caring, and support to make them feel secure.
- Interact through a play activity: Individuals with autism have a short attention span. One can communicate with them by playing indoor and outdoor games and sharing joyful moments together. It helps individuals to feel calm and relaxed.
Planning
Individuals with autism require some level of support throughout their life. Planning for their future, such as school, employment, and independent living through early intervention and treatment at Neurogen hospital can make them gain essential skills. Therapies done at the hospital addresses a range of social, language and behavioral difficulties. They also learn how to communicate with people around them.
One of the most important and challenging tasks is to communicate with an individual with autism. Frequent interaction and caring involvement of friends and family members is the best way to help them gain trust and confidence.
