This November, during National Family Caregivers Month, Caregiver Action Network’s Plug-in to Care campaign focuses on helping caregivers connect to the right resources at the right time. For those caring for someone, connection is especially important—whether to trusted information, supportive communities, or caregiver self-care tools.

The Caregiver’s Role

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in communication, social interaction, restricted or repetitive behaviors, sensory processing, and executive functioning. Because autism is a lifelong condition, caregivers often engage across all domains of life—from early intervention, education, and social supports, to adulthood, independence, and aging. For caregivers, this means balancing advocacy, adaptation, emotional support, and planning across many life stages.

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Top 3 Things Caregivers Should Know

Autism Is Heterogeneous, and Needs Change Over Time

Each person with autism is different. Some may require significant support; others may be quite independent. Needs may shift over time, especially during transitions (e.g. from school to work, adolescence to adulthood). Caregivers should expect evolution in needs, and plan with flexibility.

Communication, Behavior & Sensory Supports Are Central

Many challenges in autism caregiving stem from communication differences, sensory sensitivities, difficulty with transitions, and behavioral stressors. Supporting communication systems (e.g. AAC), creating sensory-friendly environments, and using consistent behavior strategies can reduce stress and improve daily functioning.

Navigating Systems & Promoting Self-Advocacy Are Ongoing Tasks

Caregivers often must advocate across education, health care, employment, housing, and social services systems. Encouraging self-advocacy, planning for future care, and establishing supports (e.g. respite, peer networks) are vital for the long haul. Also, caregivers need to manage their own emotional well-being and avoid burnout.

Caregiving Resources

Partner Resources

  • The Arc: Family Caregiving in Disability & Autism — The Arc publishes content and perspectives highlighting the unique experiences and needs of family caregivers in the I/DD and autism space. For example, their “We’re Family Caregivers of People With Disabilities — Here’s What We Want You to Know” showcases real caregiver voices. They also advocate broadly for family support services and strong public policies to support caregivers.

  • ASAN (Autistic Self Advocacy Network) — The Autistic Self Advocacy Network is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization run by and for autistic people. ASAN is a national grassroots disability rights organization for the autistic community. Their Autism and Safety Toolkit offers useful strategies for supporting safety and communication in autistic individuals
  • Crisis & Safety Resources for the Autism Community — Tools for crisis support, safety planning, and accommodating autistic persons in mental health or emergencies.

Caregiver Action Network

This resource was developed with support from The Arc.

Plug-in to Care: Stay Connected

Caregiving for someone can be complex, but you don’t have to face it alone. This National Family Caregivers Month, Plug-in to Care by connecting with trusted resources, communities, and support to sustain both your loved one’s health and your own.

Plug-in to Care  is made possible with support by:

Campaign Sponsors

Eisai
First Quality
Lilly
Novartis
Otsuka
Teva Pharmaceuticals

Diamond Sponsors

Alnylam Pharmaceuticals
Bristol Myers Squibb
Neurocrine
Vertex

Gold, Silver & Friend Sponsors

Acadia
Alkermes
Nomo Smart Care
PHRMA
Psych Congress