Living options for senior autistics

Supported living options for seniors with autism in Australia focus on providing a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment that promotes independence while offering the necessary care and support tailored to individual needs. 

As people on the autism spectrum age, their needs might change, and the country provides a range of accommodations to suit these varying requirements. 

Understanding autism in seniors

Autism is a lifelong developmental condition that affects how people perceive the world and interact with others. Senior individuals with autism might face unique challenges, including changes in their ability to function independently due to ageing-related issues combined with their neurodiverse condition. Recognising this, it’s crucial to provide living options that cater to their unique needs and respect their preferences and autonomy.

Types of supported living options

Specialised residential aged care facilities

Some residential aged care facilities in Australia are specialised to accommodate seniors with autism. These facilities provide a structured environment where residents can receive 24-hour support. The staff in these facilities are trained to understand the specific needs of autistic individuals, including sensory sensitivities and communication preferences.

Assisted living communities

Assisted living communities offer a balance between independence and support. Residents live in their own apartments or houses within a community setting but have access to support staff and services such as meal preparation, housekeeping, and medical care. These communities often foster social interaction and engagement through organised activities designed to be autism-friendly.

Group homes

Group homes are shared residences where a few seniors live together, supported by staff who assist with daily living tasks and healthcare needs. These homes are designed to provide a family-like environment and are often located in residential areas to facilitate community integration and interaction.

In-home support

For seniors who prefer to stay in their homes, in-home support services can be tailored to fit their needs. Services may include personal care, household management, health care, and mobility support. This option allows seniors to maintain a sense of familiarity and comfort, which can be particularly important for those with autism who may prefer routine and predictability.

Considerations for autism-friendly living

• Sensory-friendly design: Homes should minimise sensory overload, which is a common issue for many autistic individuals. This can be achieved through the use of natural lighting, soundproofing, non-fluorescent lighting, and spaces that allow for both social interaction and solitude.
• Safety and accessibility: As mobility can decrease with age, homes need to be accessible with features like ramps, non-slip floors, and wide doorways. Safety modifications might include locks that prevent wandering, which can be a concern for some older autistic adults.
• Technological supports: Smart home technologies can help in managing the environment, providing reminders, and even monitoring health remotely, which adds an essential layer of security and convenience for both the residents and their caregivers.
• Community integration and support: Ideally, housing for older autistic adults should be integrated within communities that provide access to healthcare, social services, and recreational activities, which are vital for maintaining a high quality of life.
• Health and wellbeing support: Many autistic adults take prescribed medications, often to help them manage co-occurring conditions such as epilepsy or mental health challenges.

Funding and support through NDIS

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is crucial in funding and facilitating supported living options for seniors with autism. The NDIS provides personalised support and funding based on the individual’s needs and goals. This can include funding for:

• Daily personal activities
• Transport to enable participation in community and social activities
• Therapeutic supports
• Home modifications and mobility equipment
• Help with household tasks

Eligibility for the NDIS involves meeting certain age, residency, and disability requirements. For seniors, it’s important to navigate these criteria with the help of NDIS planners or coordinators who are familiar with the needs of autistic individuals.

My Aged Care

My Aged Care is the Australian Government's platform designed to help older Australians access a range of aged care services. It serves as a central point of contact for information, assessment, and service provision, aiming to simplify the process of finding and accessing the right support.

For seniors with autism, My Aged Care can be an invaluable resource. The services and supports available through My Aged Care can help address the specific needs and challenges faced by older adults on the autism spectrum. Some of the key aspects of My Aged Care relevant to seniors with autism include:

Information and guidance

My Aged Care provides comprehensive information about aged care services available in Australia. This includes details about the types of care, eligibility criteria, and how to access services. For seniors with autism and their families, understanding the available options can be the first step in securing appropriate support.

The My Aged Care website and contact centre can guide the different types of care, such as home care, residential care, and respite care. They can also explain the assessment process and help individuals understand what to expect at each stage.

Aged care assessment

To access government-funded aged care services, an assessment is required to determine eligibility and the level of care needed. This assessment, known as the Aged Care Assessment, is conducted by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) or the Regional Assessment Service (RAS), depending on the type of care required.

For seniors with autism, the assessment process can be tailored to consider their unique needs. This might involve considering communication preferences, sensory sensitivities, and other autism-related factors. It is important for individuals and their families to communicate any specific needs to the assessment team to ensure a thorough and accurate assessment.

Home care packages

Home Care Packages (HCPs) provide support for seniors who wish to remain living at home. These packages offer a range of services, including personal care, domestic assistance, and social support. For seniors with autism, HCPs can be customised to include services that address their specific needs, such as assistance with communication or sensory-friendly modifications to the home environment.

The level of support provided through an HCP is based on the individual's assessed needs, with four levels of packages available. Seniors with autism and their families can work with their service provider to develop a care plan that aligns with their preferences and goals.

Residential care

For some seniors with autism, living independently may become challenging, and residential care may be a more suitable option. Residential care facilities provide accommodation, personal care, and health services in a supportive environment.

When considering residential care, it is important to find a facility that understands and accommodates the needs of individuals with autism. This might include providing quiet spaces, sensory-friendly activities, and staff trained in autism awareness. My Aged Care can assist in finding and choosing appropriate residential care options.

Respite care

Respite care offers temporary relief for carers, providing short-term care for individuals in their own homes, residential care facilities, or other settings. For families of seniors with autism, respite care can be particularly valuable, allowing them to take a break while ensuring their loved one receives appropriate support.

Respite care can be planned or emergency-based, depending on the needs of the individual and their carers. My Aged Care can help families explore respite care options and understand how to access this support.

Importance of a tailored approach

Each senior with autism is unique, with their own abilities, preferences, and challenges. It is essential that the supported living options not only provide the necessary medical and daily living support but also respect and facilitate their autonomy, interests, and wellbeing. Activities and support should be designed in a way that they can cater to various sensory needs and communication styles, promoting a holistic approach to care.

Community integration and socialisation

Social interaction and community engagement are vital for the wellbeing of seniors with autism. Supported living options should facilitate these aspects by providing opportunities for residents to engage with the broader community. This can be achieved through structured activities like group outings, volunteer programs, and participation in local events.

Challenges and considerations

When choosing the right supported living arrangement, several challenges may arise, including:

• Availability of specialised services
• Geographic location and proximity to family or other support networks
• The level of understanding of autism among aged care providers
• Cost and funding availability

As the population ages, it is imperative to provide adequate and appropriate supported living options for seniors with autism. These options should prioritise safety, support, independence, and quality of life, tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences. With the right support and resources, seniors with autism can enjoy a fulfilling and dignified life in their later years.