Hi, my name is AnjaliG! Worried about my 28 year old autistic son.

AnjaliG

Hello Everyone ,

I have just joined and please to be hear. I have a 28 year old Autistic son.

I am worried about how he will cope once we his parents are gone.

He has no interests and no friends. He is very capable but suffers from anxiety.

I am sure some of will have had similar experiences.

Please share your thoughts.

Thanks in advance

Anjali

Albus_Scope

Hey there @AnjaliG and welcome to the community!

I'm sorry to hear about your worries, it can be really difficult for parents to think about how their kids will be once they're not there. I can empathise as an autistic with anxiety, it can take a lot to push through it.
Have you looked into local groups or online groups that might help build his confidence, whilst also helping him make friends and discover new interests?

AnjaliG

Yes we have looked for online groups. He just does not seem to want to continue with the groups. I have to choose the groups for him. He just does not seem to want to look for groups himself.

Lola_Scope

Welcome to the online community @AnjaliG. It’s natural to worry about our children, whatever age they are, and aspire to them being happy independent adults. Have you talked to your son about your concerns. Understanding and accepting that the current situation is not sustainable is important. Not to worry him but to encourage him to be part of the plan for his future. It might be worth considering supported living for example. He would learn to live more independently gradually, in a supported environment. This might help to build his confidence, reduce anxiety and encourage him focus forward.

AnjaliG

Hi Lola,

Thankyou for your suggestion. I will consider it. Do you or anyone else have suggestions as to who to contact for supported living?

Thanks

Anita

Lola_Scope

I'm not entirely sure @AnjaliG but you could search for supported living accommodation in your area and find out what their access arrangements are. You can also request a needs assessment from your local authority, if you haven’t done so already, and enquire about supported living as part of the assessment. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/social-care-and-support-guide/help-from-social-services-and-charities/getting-a-needs-assessment/

AnjaliG

Thankyou again

AnjaliG

AnjaliG