Older Adults and Autism Spectrum Conditions: An Introduction and Guide

by Dr Wenn Lawson, Carol Povey (Foreword by)

Overview

The first book to look seriously at the practical issues facing older adults with autism spectrum conditions (ASC), Wenn Lawson's groundbreaking handbook offers support, advice, and sensible ways in which to look at the issues.

Informed by current research, interviews with older people diagnosed with ASC and his own experience, the author covers a multitude of issues including dealing with transitions and changes to routine, communicating an individual's particular needs and wishes to care home staff, the social and financial impact of retirement, mental health, and sensory and physical changes and challenges.

Older people with ASC and their family and friends, as well as the professionals supporting them, will find this an indispensable and accessible book.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781849059619
Publisher:	Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Publication date:	08/21/2015
Pages:	208
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.40(d)

About the Author

Dr Wenn B. Lawson PhD, CPsychol is a lecturer and author. Since being diagnosed with autism in 1994, Wenn is passionately committed to campaigning for the rights of people on the autism spectrum. In 2008 Wenn was awarded fourth place in the 'Victorian Australian of the Year' awards.

Table of Contents

Foreword Carol Povey 9

Acknowledgements 12

Preface 13

Introduction: Definition of Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) and Ageing 15

1 Stress Support Needs 27

2 Building Appropriate Communication Strategies 55

3 Working with Personality 71

4 Identifying Feelings, Thoughts and Actions 87

5 Support for Older People in Transition 109

6 Preparing for the Later Years 127

7 ASC Dual Diagnosis, Mental Health and Other Issues 149

8 Ageing Comfortably 179

Conclusion 195

References 199

Index 205

Editorial Reviews

Wenn Lawson is a gifted investigative writer, who masterfully weaves research with narratives and pragmatism. This is a talent particularly well used in Older Adults and Autism Spectrum Conditions. Thanks goes to Lawson for providing a comprehensive and very handy book that eases the concerns and uncertainties that typically circle aging and autism.

Liane Holliday Willey

We need a map for the uncharted territory of aging and autism. Parents, professionals and especially those who have an Autism Spectrum Condition, will now be able to navigate through this territory, absorbing the clear explanations, rationale and wise advice, and be better prepared for the future.

Tony Attwood

A visionary, intelligent and compassionate book. Wenn Lawson's understanding of autism is firmly based on a lifetime of personal experience on the spectrum and years of academic scholarship. His book should be on the shelf of anyone interested in ageing, autism and the distinctive needs of each one of us. There is a long way yet to go in this field - Dr Lawson once again clearly and thoughtfully points us in the right direction. Future generations will look back and say, "He was a pioneer."

Paul Jennings