Aging with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Overview for Rehabilitation

PT, PTA, OT, OTA, SLP – this podcast may help you meet your continuing education requirements. Access Relias Academy to review course certificate information.

Do you have older adults on your post-acute care caseload with characteristics of autism spectrum disorder but there is no diagnosis? How can you help these individuals? Today we will talk with Pamela Smith, PhD, CCC-SLP, about older adults who are neurodiverse. We will explore how to meet their needs in their living situation and in rehabilitation evaluation and treatment.

 

(01:12) Background: Autism in Adults

(02:30) Historical Application of the Diagnosis

(03:57) Absence of a Diagnosis

(06:04) Person First Language

(07:18) Awareness of Neurodiversity

(10:07) Comorbidities

(11:53) Patient Identification: Screening and Diagnosis

(21:34) Challenges in Healthcare Settings

(30:23) Recommended Rehabilitation Approach

(37:24) Communication Tips

(38:31) Challenging Behaviors

(50:39) Discharge Planning

(54:34) Conclusion

The content for this course was created by Pamela A. Smith, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, ASHA Fellow, FNAP.

The content for this course was created by Susan Almon-Matangos, MS/CCC-SLP.

Here is how Relias can help you earn continuing education credits: 

Access your Relias Library offered by your employer to see course certificate information and exam; 
or 
Access the continuing education library for clinicians at Relias Academy Review the course certificate information, and if eligible, you can purchase the course to access the course exam and receive your certificate.

Learn more about Relias at www.relias.com.  

Legal Disclaimer: The content of Stretch: Relias Rehab Therapy Education is provided only for educational and training purposes for healthcare professionals. The educational material provided in this podcast should not be used as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others.

Resources

Brisch, D. (2021). Old lady with autism [Blog]. https://oldladywithautism.blog/