The most recent government study estimates that 1 in 70 Australians is living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD, a complex developmental condition that involves challenges when it comes to social communication, restrictions in interests, and repetitive behavioural patterns.
The prevalence of autism is rising steadily due to increased awareness and improved diagnosis, with more men being diagnosed than women at a ratio of 3:1. Nearly 100,000 Australians on the spectrum are of working age, in the range between 15 and 64. Just over a third of those are in the labour force, compared with those not on the spectrum, with more than 84%.
The findings also reported that almost 70% of the people on the spectrum required assistance with activities of daily living and functional skills, whilst half of those surveyed experienced mobility restrictions.
The growing prevalence of autism requires the close collaboration of different sectors, including health professionals such as Exercise Physiologists, educators, and community members, to address the needs of and give support to people living with autism. Whilst living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) presents unique challenges for adults, individuals can thrive and lead fulfilling lives if provided with the right support and activities.
Therapy activities for adults with autism
Therapy can play a crucial role in helping adults with ASD develop essential skills, manage emotions, and navigate social interactions. If you’re wondering what the best therapy for adults with autism is, then you’ve come to the right place. Here are some effective therapy activities tailored for adults with autism:
Sensory integration activities
Many individuals with autism experience sensory sensitivities. Engaging in sensory integration activities and other behavioural therapy activities for autism can help regulate sensory input and promote relaxation. Activities such as deep pressure massages, using sensory tools like fidget spinners or weighted blankets, and exploring different textures through sensory bins can provide a calming and grounding experience.
Social skills training
Social interactions can be challenging for adults with autism. Social skills training in therapy focuses on teaching communication techniques, understanding social cues, and developing empathy. Role-playing in scenarios for adults with autism, practising conversational skills through structured activities, and joining social skills groups provide opportunities for adults with ASD to enhance their social competence in a supportive environment.
Art therapy
Art therapy offers a non-verbal way for adults with autism to express themselves and process emotions. Engaging in art activities such as painting, drawing, or sculpting can be therapeutic and provide a means of communication for individuals who may struggle with verbal expression. Art therapy encourages self-discovery and self-expression and promotes emotional wellbeing.
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques
Learning mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help adults with autism manage stress and anxiety. Mindfulness practices such as deep breathing exercises, guided meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help individuals develop greater self-awareness and emotional regulation skills. These techniques provide tools for coping with overwhelming sensory experiences and promoting a sense of calm.
Structured physical activities
Incorporating structured physical activities into therapy sessions can improve coordination, motor skills, and overall wellbeing. Activities such as yoga, dance therapy, or martial arts offer adults with autism opportunities to engage in physical exercise while also developing body awareness and self-regulation skills.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a therapeutic approach that focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviours. It can be particularly beneficial for adults with autism who experience anxiety or depression. Through CBT techniques such as cognitive restructuring and behavioural experiments, individuals can learn to manage their emotions and develop coping strategies for daily challenges.
Life skills training
Learning practical life skills is essential for fostering independence in adults with autism. Therapy sessions can focus on teaching skills such as cooking, budgeting, time management, and job readiness. These skills can empower individuals to navigate daily tasks and increase their confidence in their abilities.
Therapy activities tailored for adults with autism aim to promote growth, self-discovery, and overall wellbeing. By providing a supportive and structured environment, individuals with ASD can develop essential skills, manage challenges, and lead fulfilling lives. Therapy serves as a valuable resource in helping adults with autism thrive and reach their full potential.
Can exercise and physical activity help people with autism?
Regular exercise and physical activity are beneficial for people of all ages and functional abilities. These are especially helpful in helping people with autism improve their wellbeing as individuals on the spectrum, on average, experience poorer health and may have a range of physical and mental conditions.
Additionally, people with ASD and their loved ones may also face a range of barriers to physical activity and exercise – aside from lack of access to and the availability of inclusive facilities that can adapt to their needs, there’s also finding the time to accommodate physical activities in a busy life, in addition to other therapy activities.
Everyone is different, and it can be challenging to judge whether a physical activity will be stimulating and enjoyable until they try it for themselves. While some people with autism may find working out in a group setting or playing team sports okay, some may opt to work out at their own pace.
Why talking to our Exercise Physiologists can help
If you or a loved one is living with autism, you may find that participating in team sports or exercise group classes can be overwhelming. This is when a more personalised and individualised approach might be more appropriate for you.
Consulting with our Exercise Physiologists at Healthstin can go a long way toward helping you identify which exercise programs and physical activities are better suited to your interests and abilities.
Whether your health goal is to improve your fine motor skills, balance and coordination, relieve anxiety, or enhance your self-confidence, your Healthstin Exercise Physiologist can first assess your condition, design a customised program appropriate to your goals and condition, and monitor your progress to ensure optimal results.
Reach out to our Allied Health Team via 1300 090 931 or Book an NDIS Exercise Physiologist for an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) session.
