Autistic Agenda

 As someone with both personal and professional experience supporting autistic individuals, I am deeply aware of the unique challenges they face in achieving independent living. Research indicates that only 19% of autistic adults live independently without formal supports, while the majority reside with family or in supported living arrangements (Drexel University, 2021). This statistic highlights the systemic barriers that continue to limit opportunities, rather than individual ability. My goal is to be part of a supportive framework that empowers autistic adults to develop essential life skills and achieve meaningful autonomy. Co-occurring intellectual disability is a significant predictor of living outcomes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2023), approximately 31% of autistic individuals have an intellectual disability, which can complicate independent living. However, even those without cognitive impairments often encounter challenges such as execu...

  Introduction Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior, with a broad range of severity. While considerable attention has been paid to the early diagnosis and intervention of children with autism, the needs of autistic adults remain largely underserved. As these individuals transition into adulthood, many are challenged by significant barriers, such as difficulties in securing stable employment, finding suitable housing, and forming meaningful social connections. Unlike children, who often have access to special education programs and therapeutic interventions, autistic adults frequently face a sudden withdrawal of structured support once they age out of youth services, typically around the age of 21. This shift, often referred to as the “services cliff,” can leave families scrambling for support and individuals vulnerable to regression or stagnation (Lord et al., 2018; Cuthbert, 2018). As of...