More support needed for adults with autism in Alberta: ASEA

Monday marks the fifth annual World Autism Awareness Day and new statistics show more kids than ever, are being diagnosed with the disease.

Statistics released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that one in every 88 children have an autism spectrum disorder, up from one in every 110 people.

Deborah Barrett from the Autism Society of Edmonton Area, ASEA, says these numbers are becoming a concern.

ASEA receives a number of calls from families asking for support, wondering what types of resources are available for children with autism.

Barrett says the biggest influx of calls comes from parents whose children are becoming adults, wondering what resources are available in Alberta for adults.

“We are a leader in childrens services, but we have virtually nothing for our adults with autism and that’s a big scare for parents,” Barrett says adding, “I think, as a population we keep thinking, autistic children and we are not really opening our eyes and thinking these autistic children become adults.”

She says adults who qualify, can get funding from the government through the Persons with Developmental Disabilities program, PDD. However, in order to qualify, people need to have a number of functional deficits including an IQ less than 70.

Barrett worries about those who have an IQ higher than 70.

“They may need it just as much, because with autism you can have a very high intelligence and still be unable to function very well in society.”

Barrett has an adult son of her own who has autism and understands other parents concerns.

“Anthony needs a lot of health and safety support,” she says adding, “He understand how to cross a road but that doesn’t mean it always happens and on any given day he might just walk out in front of traffic, that’s a big fear for us.”

Barrett says a formal request called “Act Now for Autism” has been presented to the government, requesting they appoint a committee that will develop and implement a strategy for adults with autism.

The request outlines a number of areas of concern, including knowledgeable and informed health care.

“When someone doesn’t talk well or can’t communicate clearly you need a doctor who understands about autism and understands how medication might interact with the brain and their physical systems,” Barrett explains.

She says post secondary options are also a concern. Her son, Anthony, attends the adult literacy program at Norquest College, and says it really helps him out.

“It gives him structure to his day and hes got a purpose and meaning in his life, that’s what we all want,” She explains adding, “People with autism want that too.”

Employment and supportive housing are also areas in which they would like to see improvements.

“As parents age, we’re not always able to take care of our kids, it’s very devastating,” Barrett says adding, “We need supportive housing.”

She suggests something similar to seniors care would be a great option .

Barrett says, ideally, what they would like to see is a clinic for adults with autism in various areas around the province.
 

With files from Su-Ling Goh.