Autism throughout life

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social cognition and communication, restricted interests, and stereotyped behaviors. It is often associated with sensory dysfunctions, other neurodevelopmental disorders, neuropsychiatric disorders, epilepsy and/or sleep disorders. This condition will accompany people throughout their lives, with variations in its evolution. In the last ten years, only 1% of all autism research focused on developing post-secondary education programs and training in adult health services. Taking into account this dichotomy of interests, we must think about the different stages of life, such as early intervention, school inclusion, bullying, associated mental and medical disorders, lack of group belonging, job opportunities and the aging. Only by becoming aware of each of them can we achieve a better quality of life for people with autism and their families.