Bridging the Gap: Helping Autistic Adults Transition into Society

Bridging the Gap

Bridging the Gap: Helping Autistic Adults Transition into Society

Transitioning from adolescence to adulthood can be a challenging phase for anyone. However, when it comes to adults with autism, the journey can be even more daunting. In their school years, these individuals receive ample support from social workers, guidance counselors, speech and language therapists, and occupational therapists. They also have access to social skills classes and one-to-one support. However, once they step into adulthood, these services become scarce and difficult to access due to lack of insurance coverage or general funding.

As they transition into the adult world, they must apply for services such as Developmental Disabilities Administration or vocational rehab services. Unfortunately, not all adults with autism qualify for these services. This is where organizations like Itineris step in. They collaborate with local businesses and larger corporations to provide work opportunities for adults with autism.

Despite their efforts, community building remains a significant challenge. It involves matching the unique talents of individuals with autism to suitable employers, which requires training and education on the employer’s part. There is a misconception that hiring an adult with autism might require additional effort from the employer. However, just like any other employee, they might need certain accommodations in the office.

For instance, some employees might prefer using a whiteboard, an electric height adjustable standing desk, or an extra monitor. Similarly, for adults on the autism spectrum, changes might include bringing in a lamp or adjusting a desk so they aren’t sitting with their back to the door. They might also benefit from having a visual schedule. The key to overcoming these challenges is workplace education.

Organizations like Itineris join a rich history of local organizations that have been striving to make a difference in disability work for many years. The Hearing and Speech Agency of Baltimore (HASA), for example, has been supporting individuals with communication differences since 1926. HASA’s CEO Erin Lamb believes in developing the listening skills of different communities to create a world where everyone can understand and be understood.

In the world of invisible disabilities, individuals often have to advocate for their needs. For instance, a deaf consumer must connect with a venue to request an interpreter at a show. Lamb’s personal mission is to shift this burden from the individual and create a truly inclusive environment for individuals with hearing loss, autism, and other neurodiversities.

However, breaking stigma is just one part of the puzzle. Organizations like HASA also face operational challenges such as securing public and private funding and removing barriers to care. For example, hearing aids are expensive but not always covered by insurance. Despite these challenges, the social and emotional benefits of having access to these services are immense.

In conclusion, transitioning into adulthood for individuals with autism comes with its unique set of challenges. However, with the right support and understanding from society, these adults can lead fulfilling lives. It’s about time we rethink our workspaces and communities to accommodate everyone’s needs, whether it’s providing the best sit stand desk or creating a visually appealing schedule. Let’s work towards creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

author avatar
Guy Director
Higher Diploma in Mechanical Engineering. Ergomotion Director since 2005.

Google Reviews

Ergomotion

Google Reviews

Shelley Jensen 07/09/24

Google
Guy (the owner) delivered the desk and set it up quickly. He then gave me a lesson on how to use it and how to get the most out of it. Arrived on time and was absolutely lovely to deal with throughout the whole process. Highly recommend.

clifford sneider 06/09/24

Google
Guy was fantastic and the desk is amazing

Jo Manning 08/08/24

Google
I bought an adjustable desk from Guy a couple of years ago, got great service and good price. Recently we had a tiny issue which could not be fixed over the phone. Guy was more than happy to come out and look at it 2 days later. All fixed! I really appreciated his patience with me and accommodating us so quickly. Great old fashioned service and piece of mind. I love it. I know where to get my second desk when needed. Thank you Guy. Jo Manning

Deborah Hunt 25/07/24

Google
ergomotion were fantastic to deal with. excellent customer service and a great product.

Andrew Pieterse 14/06/24

Google
Great service and really quick shipping. It is great to know that you are getting quality parts from a Scandinavian manufacturer with your standing desk purchase rather than the cheap knock off stuff you get from other major brands. Reasonably priced for the quality too!

Janette Clarke 20/05/24

Google
Guy was very accommodating with meeting him at a time that suited me. He assembled the desk prior to me collecting so I only had to carry it inside with help (it's pretty heavy). The desk is great, the storage racks underneath with the 6 x built in powerpoints was worth the extra money. I have a functioning & tidy workplace.
Guy was brilliant, I highly recommend.
Janette

Nickel 10/05/24

Google
Have now purchased 2 stand up office desks off Guy, benchmark sales service from him, all via email, so easy; from quote to plug in, only matched by the strong quality of these machines, solid and stable. If only everything in life was this easy and reliable.

Jennifer Fadriquela 23/03/24

Google
I purchased an EDesk this month from Ergomotion, and it was a remarkably smooth transaction. Guy was eager to answer all my questions before my purchase. As a first-time buyer of a standing desk, I truly appreciated how he addressed my queries with thorough details and provided options within my budget.

The delivery process was also smooth, despite a slight delay in the ETA. Guy ensured I received all necessary updates from the courier/removalist.

I've been using the desk for a couple of weeks now and I'm satisfied with it. It's sturdy on all height adjustments and the motor works as expected. I also like oak finish because it's clean-looking and suits my room setup.

Overall, I'm happy with my purchase and I'll definitely recommend Ergomotion to someone looking for their desk needs.

Josh Oliver 04/02/24

Google
I've had an ergomotion desk for 10 years. It's still as good today as it was brand new. Over the years Guy has always responded promptly to any guidance I've needed (mostly help putting the desk back together after removalists take it apart).

Michael Cheung 18/01/24

Google
Great service from Guy and the team at Ergomotion! Helped with all my queries and was able to source a standing desk part for me when many others weren't able! Highly recommend!
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