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Review
. 2014 Sep;98(5):1169-91.
doi: 10.1016/j.mcna.2014.06.011.

Primary care for adults on the autism spectrum

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Review

Primary care for adults on the autism spectrum

Christina Nicolaidis et al. Med Clin North Am. 2014 Sep.

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is defined by differences in social communication and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. Skills and challenges can change depending on environmental stimuli, supports, and stressors. Quality of life can be improved by the use of accommodations, assistive technologies, therapies to improve adaptive function or communication, caregiver training, acceptance, access, and inclusion. This article focuses on the identification of ASD in adults, referrals for services, the recognition of associated conditions, strategies and accommodations to facilitate effective primary care services, and ethical issues related to caring for autistic adults.

Keywords: Adults; Autism spectrum disorders; Developmental disabilities; Primary care.

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References

    1. Brugha TS, McManus S, Bankart J, et al. Epidemiology of autism spectrum disorders in adults in the community in England. Archives of general psychiatry. 2011;68(5):459–65. - PubMed
    1. Nicolaidis C, Raymaker D, McDonald K, et al. Collaboration Strategies in Nontraditional Community-Based Participatory Research Partnerships: lessons from an academic–community partnership with autistic self-advocates. Prog Community Health Partnersh. 2011;5(2):143. - PMC - PubMed
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    1. Nicolaidis C. What can physicians learn from the neurodiversity movement? Virtual Mentor. 2012;14(6):503. - PubMed

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