Frequently Asked Questions for Autism Support & Care

If you have a loved one living with autism, you might have some questions about how it changes their everyday life.

Below, we’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked questions about autism and answered them for you. 

What is Autism?

Autism, known often as Autism Spectrum Disorder, is a condition that affects the way a person's brain develops and works. People living with autism may have trouble communicating, socializing, and understanding other people's emotions. They may also have interests or behaviors that are different from most people. Autism is a spectrum, meaning different people with autism may have different strengths and challenges.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines autism spectrum disorder as:

“Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. Some people with ASD have a known difference, such as a genetic condition. Other causes are not yet known.”

How is Autism Diagnosed?

Diagnosing autism in a child can be hard because there are no specific medical tests or blood tests. Instead, doctors rely on looking for signs of developmental delays during regular checkups. 

To make a correct diagnosis, they go over the child's history and behavior patterns.

If you think your child might be living with autism, a doctor will check to be sure. The doctor might be a doctor who knows about children's brains and development. They will check your child's hearing, speech, and behavior to see if they might have autism. They will also watch your child to see how they play and talk with others. Then, they will use a special test to see how your child does in social situations.

These evaluations help doctors diagnose ASD despite having no true medical tests available.

Is There a Cure for Autism?

There is currently no true cure for autism—however, treatment options for autism aim to reduce symptoms, boost abilities, and promote overall well-being, allowing people living with autism to thrive.

Some of these support options include:

• Therapy (Educational, speech & language, behavioral, etc.)
• Medications
• Family involvement 

These support options are used on a case-to-case basis—since every person is different, there isn’t a single treatment or support option that works for autism care every time.

Is Asperger’s the Same as Autism?

Asperger’s is actually a form of autism. In fact, it’s the second most common form found in children. Asperger’s is a milder form of autism—children living with Asperger’s often have normal intellectual abilities but may lack social skills instead.

What Causes Autism?

Right now, scientists think that autism is caused by many different things that work together to change how someone's brain grows and works, such as a genetic condition. 

We still have a lot to learn about what causes autism. 

How Do You Support a Loved One Living With Autism?

Support for someone living with autism is not just something done at an autism treatment center or school. Family can help make a big difference. You can make a home that helps a person living with autism grow while giving them love, care, and support.

Consistency helps people living with autism feel safe and secure. If a doctor or teacher uses certain ways to talk during therapy, you can try them at home. 

Keeping a schedule is also important. Adults and children living with ASD do well with a routine, like a set time for bed, school or work, meals, and other activities.

It's important to create a safe space at home for anyone living with autism. We all need a place where we feel calm and safe. Sometimes, you may need to make changes at home to make it safer based on your needs.

Your love and care is the most important way you can support your loved one living with autism.

How Can Sevita Help?

Sevita’s companies provide autism support for children and adults living with autism. Let us know how we can support you and your loved ones.

Autism supports for children // autism supports for adults