Caring for a Loved One with Autism

Caregiving doesn’t pause after November — and neither does the importance of staying connected to the right support. Plug-in to Care helps caregivers find trusted information, supportive communities, and practical tools that make each day a little more manageable. Whether you’re caring for a loved one this holiday season or any time of year, connection can make all the difference.

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.

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.
The HollyRod Foundation — Dedicated to raising awareness and providing resources to families that have a loved one who has received an autism or Parkinson’s Disease diagnosis; advocating for ethical treatment, inclusion, and access to services and treatment of individuals living with autism or Parkinson’s Disease with the goal of empowering them to live their best lives.

Caregiver Action Network

This resource was developed with support from The Arc.

Plug-in to Care: Stay Connected

Caregiving can be complex, but you don’t have to face it alone. Plug-in to Care by connecting with trusted resources, supportive communities, and tools that help you care for your loved one — and yourself — throughout the holiday season and beyond.