older kids - Autism Spectrum Message Board

autismsso · 03-01-2008, 05:38 AM

I've been wondering lately what happens to our kids when they get older? Do they continue to have the same facinations and will they need constant supervision and support for the rest of their lives. Does depression become a factor? What can we expect?

MOM23ANGELS · 03-03-2008, 11:29 AM

there is no answer to this question. there are no two children (on the spectrum) that are alike. we take it day by day and do our best to help our son be as independant a functional member of society as he can. (he is still a young child so i don't know how independant he will be in the future.)

i learned early on that professionals have no idea what the future holds, so we just celebrate every obstacle my son overcomes.

teisha74 · 03-03-2008, 01:54 PM

My son is 11. While he has "grown out of" certain behaviors, it appears that he grows into another. I try and remain positive about his future because none of us are certain what our own future holds. My constant prayer and hope is that others will treat him as special as I

.

luckystar · 03-26-2008, 07:46 AM

My son is 16 and has come miles and miles from where he was. He changes everyday just like NT kids. There is no way to measure how far they will go. My son has leveled off a lot of his " quirks" and at most times acts like a typical moody teenager. He talks about driving but has yet to pick up the manual and read it. He has a girlfriend. Things are good, NOT great but good.

I worry what will happen when this relationship ends, but who hasnt gotten their heart broken.

It is a day by day learning process.

DannysMum · 03-26-2008, 02:38 PM

I read all the replies to this posting hoping that someone was going to say 'yes, when they grow older they are able to care for themselves and be independent'!
That's all I want, for my little boy to be safe as an adult when we are no longer here to protect him.