Supporting a Person with Autism in Healthcare and Leisure Activities
Q: How can we help Darren, a person with autism, access healthcare and leisure facilities?
a) How to help a person with autism access healthcare:
Supporting Darren in Accessing Healthcare:
Communication Support: Arrange for a support worker or familiar individual to accompany Darren to appointments and facilitate communication with medical professionals.
Visual Supports: Create visual aids like social stories or schedules to prepare Darren for healthcare visits, reducing anxiety and increasing predictability.
Sensory Considerations: Advocate for adjustments like quieter times for appointments to minimize sensory overload in the healthcare environment.
Preparation and Gradual Exposure: Introduce Darren gradually to the medical environment, providing positive reinforcement for successful visits.
b) How to help a person with autism access leisure facilities and opportunities:
Supporting Darren in Accessing Leisure Activities:
Person-Centered Planning: Involve Darren in decision-making, identify activities aligned with his interests, and provide engagement.
Social Support: Encourage participation in group activities that cater to his interests to promote social interactions and inclusion.
Sensory Considerations: Choose venues and activities with sensory-friendly environments to accommodate Darren's sensitivities.
Structured Routines: Maintain consistent schedules for leisure activities to reduce anxiety and promote security.
Gradual Exposure and Skill-Building: Introduce new activities gradually, providing support and clear instructions for independence.