|
AANE January 2023 Newsletter: Autism & Aging
|
|
For too long, research and services were mainly focused on autistic children and teens, which left older autistic individuals without the same level of societal awareness and support. This month, older autistic adults and the professionals who work with them discuss their experiences and the power of self-understanding in later years.
Looking for upcoming events? Buttons in sections below link to listings for each group in our community.
Conference Sponsorship!
See how your organization can reach the AANE community by sponsoring our March conference on public support programs for autistic adults. Learn more.
AANE Calendar
See what's happening this month and beyond in the AANE Calendar. |
|
Discovering Autism and Community
Later in Life
|
 |
|
Most older autistic adults have spent the majority of their lives feeling they were different from others, but not understanding why. Executive Director Brenda Dater discusses the way learning about autism has given them a new perspective and has helped many find community.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Check out these helpful AANE resources!
|
|
|
AANE's 2023 Virtual Jody Acford Conference: Navigating the Public Support Roadmap for Autistic Adults -- March 25 + 26, 2023
|
|
|
AANE's renowned Jody Acford Conference includes comprehensive content on the public benefits, services, and supports available to autistic adults. This conference will provide information for a national audience as well as specific information for Massachusetts and New York. Registration opens mid January.
|
|
|
The Turning Point
Many older adults only discover they are autistic after years of pushing themselves and becoming overwhelmed. Read one woman's journey of self-discovery after experiencing personal tragedy and facing tremendous challenges.
|
|
|
Coming Up...
Click here for the current listing of events, support groups, and social activities for adults, including the workshop, Asperger’s/Autism 101 for Adults, the webinar, The Lost Generation of Older Autistic Adults, and much more.
|
|
|
Here are some helpful links for adults in our community:
|
|
|
Parents & Families of Autistic Individuals
|
|
|
It's a Family Matter
When one person discovers they are autistic, they often realize others in the family are also autistic. Read how this new perspective can impact everyone, including older family members.
|
|
|
Coming Up...
Learn more about upcoming events, workshops, and support groups for parents and families, including the webinar, Virtual Book Talk with Essmaa Litam, author of "Speechless," the workshop, Autism and the IEP for Parents of Children/Teens/Young Adults, and much more.
|
|
|
Don't miss these services AANE provides for parents and families:
|
|
|
Professionals Working with the Autism Community
|
|
|
Five Principles for Supporting Aging Autistic Adults
For those who work with or assist older autistic adults, here are important points to consider from an AANE LifeNet clinical case manager/personal advocate.
|
|
|
Learn more about AANE programs, support, and training for professionals.
|
|
|
LifeMAP
Individualized life coaching program for autistic older teens & adults
LifeMAP coaches can help autistic adults in all stages of life find ways to maximize their quality of life, including making new friends, finding resources, and pursuing passions. Learn more about LifeMAP. |
|
LifeNet
Team-based support to help autistic adults optimize independence
The LifeNet team supports autistic adults throughout the lifespan, centering their priorities and interests and honoring their right and role as their own decision-makers and self-advocates. Learn more about LifeNet. |
Neurodiverse Couples Institute
Resources for couples and couples therapists/coaches
AANE certified therapists or coaches can help neurodiverse couples successfully navigate life changes, communicating their needs better and setting goals that work for each partner. Learn about AANE courses for therapists. |
|
|
|
