Use of Visual Aids by an Autistic Individual

Question: Discuss about theUse of Visual Aids by an Autistic Individual. Answer: Introduction Autism is a mental or behavioural disorder characterized by difficulty in communicating and forming relationships with other people using language and abstract concepts (Autism Spectrum Australia 2016). It is a lifelong condition that affects how a person communicates with people, relates to them and experiences the world (Australia Autism Spectrum 2016). There is no clear cause or cure for autism but its occurrence has been attributed to genetic factors and environmental risk factors such as low supply of oxygen to the child's brain while it was still a foetus and the mother's mental illness during pregnancy (South Western Sydney Institute). The communication in autistic individuals include delay in speech development, difficulty in holding conversations, difficulty in taking part in social interactions and reliance on visual aid and sign language due to inability to communicate verbally (South Western Sydney Institute). It is therefore imperative to use the most appropriate method of communication when interacting with a person with the condition. These methods include; the use of simple and consistent language, use of visual aid, avoiding using metaphors as the individuals interpret language literally, seeking constant confirmation that they understand what you are saying and expressing one idea at a time to allow the person time to process the information and respond (South Western Sydney Institute). The clients unable to communicate verbally rely on visual aid. The use of pictures and symbols eases communication since they are clearly intentional and readily understood. The client, Mark is autistic. He relies on visual aid for communication, routine changes are difficult to him and he is anxious in new situations. The caregiver is required to have the necessary skills to communicate with him, take him through transitions and be able to help him adapt to change easily. The change of environment from what Mark is used to is a difficult process and there should be a way to help him through it. The use of visual aid among other strategies can be useful in the process of transition from one activity to another (Autism Speaks2016). An activity schedule helps in smooth transition by increasing predictability (Autism Speaks 2016). Here is a visual schedule covering the activities that Mark will take part in from the time he wakes up to the time the group meeting with the gamers. The visual support is aimed at reducing the confusion that Mark may experience due to unpredictability (Medic8 2016). He does not handle the change of routine well therefore using the visual aid may help him transition smoothly. The schedule above includes the time, people and various activities that Mark will engage in during the day right from when he wakes up to the end of the day when he leaves the group and goes back home. Since Mark experiences anxiety in difficult situations, it is essential to avoid making him deal with sudden change. I will first inform Mark about the new schedule before starting the new routine. This will include an explanation of what activities he should expect in the future and the time durations of every activity using visual aids. There should be progressive visits to the arena of the gaming meeting which will increase with time (South Western Sydney Institute). Getting his opinion on the new routine and making changes will be an important step in gaining his trust and sense of control in the things that matter to him. It shows that he has a say in the decisions made regarding his life since he is an adult. Involvement of his family in the process goes a long way in making the transition smooth. The family is one of the few institutions that an individual is used to hence; involving them in the process brings a sense of familiarity making it easier for the client to adapt. I can involve the parents in the process by having one of them drive Mark to the meeting and attending some of the sessions. The presence of the parent in the makes it easier for Mark to adjust in a situation that would have otherwise been difficult. The other ways of supporting Mark will involve helping him develop his skills, maximize his independence and supporting his rights, welfare and interests (South Western Sydney Institute). Mark's interest in gaming and trains should be encouraged as they will influence his personal development for instance, attending the gaming meetings will improve his social skills and improve his interaction with people. Mark can be assisted in maximizing his independence by allowing him to make choices regarding his life and interests. All these improve the client's personal development in the all aspects. References Autism Speaks 2016, Visual Supports and Autism Spectrum Disorder, http//:www.autismspeaks.org Autism Spectrum Australia 2016, What is Autism? http//:www.autismspectru.org.au. Medic 8 2016, Guide to Autism; Dealing With Change. http//:www.medic8.com. South Western Sydney Institute, Support Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder http//:www.SWSI.tayensw.edu.au.