Autism Awareness Month

Our Team are wearing Blue today to recognise Autism Awareness Month.

What is Autism?

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours, speech and nonverbal communication. According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 44 children.

We know that there is not one autism but many subtypes, most influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Because autism is a spectrum disorder, each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges. The ways in which people with autism learn, think and problem-solve can range from highly skilled to severely challenged. Some people with ASD may require significant support in their daily lives, while others may need less support and, in some cases, live entirely independently.

Several factors may influence the development of autism, and it is often accompanied by sensory sensitivities and medical issues such as gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures or sleep disorders, as well as mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression and attention issues.

Common Signs of Autism

Signs of autism usually appear by age 2 or 3. Some associated development delays can appear even earlier, and often, it can be diagnosed as early as 18 months. Research shows that early intervention leads to positive outcomes later in life for people with autism, which is where we come in. Here at Caremark Rotherham & Sheffield, we are proud to say we support children, young people and adults of all ages with Autism, our Support Workers can be present to help with daily living activities such as Feeding, Drinking, Community Access, Personal Cares. We have many success stories where we have supported people living with Autism to live a happy, fulfilled life and we are priveleged to be a part of our Client’s lives on a daily basis.