The County Press

To understand autism, support caregivers

EDITORIAL

The spread of COVID-19 has resulted in unprecedented changes to the daily lives of children and families. We realize these changes may be particularly challenging for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), who tend to thrive on consistency, structure and routine.

April is National Autism Awareness Month, an opportunity we chose today to celebrate the countless ways that people with ASD in Lapeer County contribute to our families and communities.

According to the latest Centers for Disease Control research, one in 59 children in the United States are diagnosed with autism. Autism is also four times more common in boys than girls. It’s challenging to acquire exact statistics about autism in children because many adults not diagnosed with autism in early childhood go undiagnosed into adulthood. It’s estimated that there are about 3.5 million Americans living with a type of autism.

Given these statistics, there’s a high likelihood that you know someone that has autism or a family that is caring for someone with autism. ASD is a complex condition with a variety of signs, symptoms, and severity levels. Currently, there is no blood test or cure for autism, so early detection and intervention with treatment and services are key to improve a persons’ development and functionality for a lifetime. Given the prevalence and complexity of autism, it’s important to be aware of ways you can support people that dealing with the condition.

Chances are you know family or friends that are autism caregivers. Just like with other caregivers, one of the best ways to show support is to give them a break from their daily routine. Let your family and friends know that you want to support them as an autistic caregiver and discuss ways you can help the caregiver. Making meals, cleaning, yard work, and childcare are great ways to support a caregiver. Remember, even a small amount of support to a caregiver can go a long way.

Today in INSIGHT (page 1B) we honor and share several stories about exceptional autistic individuals, parents, educators and advocate organizations in Lapeer County who enhance the quality of life of our autistic community.

We recognize that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused unique disruptions to, and placed new strains on, the lives of individuals with autism and their families. All citizens should be grateful for the creativity and dedication of educators, health care providers, and others who have rapidly adapted to the limitations of the pandemic by offering virtual learning, telehealth appointments, and other remote services.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been hard on everyone, but it has created even greater obstacles and challenges for individuals and families to tend to their loved ones with ASD.

The disorder is marked by impaired communication and social interactions, repetitive behaviors and a narrow range of interests. Talents and challenges vary widely from one person to another. A boy who can calculate in the millions in elementary school might not tie his shoes until he’s 10. Other children never learn to speak or dress and need care their entire lives. And there’s everything in between.

National Autism Awareness Month is intended to promote understanding and celebrate differences.

We commend individuals and organizations in Lapeer County that identify a need to ensure individuals with ASD are understood and are treated in kindness. As autism diagnosis rates continue to increase, it’s important that people are educated about the disorder.

In doing so, we will all be better equipped to offer support to family and friends, and learn how to support autistic individuals in our community. Together, we can make a difference.