Autism DX/Joan

[Guest guest]

Being new to the diagnosis of autism as of two years ago, was 41 at

the time. I have found that the psychiatrist and professionals working

with Down syndrome look at as a person with Down syndrome and all

the characteristics they have observed and don't agree with the autism

diagnosis. They do agree with the recommendations and strategies of the

psychologist who gave the diagnosis and clinical consultant specialist

in deafness and autism.

I have learned to agree with what the psychologist and consultant said

that it doesn't matter what you call it if you all agree with the

recommendations and strategies that this is how relates to his

environment and other people and these are the ways to help him. This

seems to be along the line of your thinking Joan. Another important

thing is that with the turn over of staff seen so frequently in the

adult programs it is important that all are trained in how to work with

the person. We are very fortunate now that 's behavior specialist

and home director are so tuned in to doing this training.

Louise in IL Mom to 43 DS, Hearing Impaired, ASD

Part of Joan's post below.

Re: a question for all of you to ponder........

I think it is a very difficult diagnosis to make due

to the issues related to Down syndrome that are

already present. Thus, I also think it is difficult to

accept fully because of those same issues.

Perhaps I feel strongly about looking at the child

first and not worrying about a diagnosis so much

because there's no real benefit to adding this label

to Andy--except in how other people perceive him or in

their acceptance of his anxiety and odd behaviors. But

Andy is, who Andy is. And what works best is what I'm

going to do...no matter if it's ADD/HD or autism or

apraxia.

FWIW,

Joan

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