What you can do
Around one in 100 people in the UK has autism. This means that it is quite likely that you know someone on the autistic spectrum. Here are some general points to keep in mind when interacting with someone with autism to help them.
Anxiety
A whole range of things can make a person with autism anxious including
- social interaction
- unfamiliar surroundings
- travel
- loud noises.
Someone can show they're anxious by withdrawing or repeating physical actions. Following the tips below can help.
- Use clear, direct language. It is better to be literal - avoid metaphors and sarcasm.
- Maintain a calm demeanour.
- Be aware of the sensory aspects of your surroundings. Try to meet somewhere quiet and not too bright or highly decorated.
- Don't expect much eye contact.
- Be punctual. If you've arranged a time to meet then stick to it.
- Don't make promises that you can't keep.
- Forcing people with autism to be sociable won't work.
- Try to avoid phycially touching.
- Be patient and give the person time to process and respond.
Planned meetings
- Set out the time and agenda in advance and stick to it.
- Clearly set out a beginning, middle and end for any activities, tasks and meetings.
- Confirm the person's understanding including anything they are expected to do.
- Work with the person's preferred commmunication methods, such as diaries, visual planners or email.
- Be prepared to phone in advance if appropriate.
- Give the person the opportunity to express anything that they may need you to do.
Unplanned encounters and activities
- Be polite and patient.
- If you do not already know the person well, clearly explain who you are.
- Explain why you are there and what you intend to do without using complicated terms or jargon.
- Ask the person if there is anything you can do to aid communication.