Autism supports for comfort, care and connection
The autistic-led project explores how autistic adults employ a range of objects, services and creatures to support their wellbeing. The study’s findings offer insights into the everyday and creative ways that autistic people understand, (re)imagine and engage with non-human support activities, practices and things.
The report presents 'portraits' and narratives of 12 autistic Australians. The graphically illustrated portraits of each participant use words and images to depict the challenges they face, the supports they use to help them cope with these challenges and their special interests.
The interview questions asked participants about the kinds of supports (other than people) they use as part of their everyday lives: for entertainment and leisure, connection with others, cultivating a special interest, dealing with burnout or sensory challenges, and promoting health and wellbeing. Finally, the participants were asked to imagine the ideal new support to best fit their needs.
