Autism Myth-Busting: Autistic People Can’t Live Independently

Photo by Maria Lin Kim on Unsplash

One common myth about autism is that autistic people cannot live independently. This belief is not only inaccurate but can also be damaging. Just like everyone else, autistic people have a wide range of abilities, lifestyles, and support needs.

Understanding Different Support Needs

Many autistic adults live entirely independently, managing their homes, careers, and social lives successfully. Some may benefit from practical support in areas like budgeting, organising tasks, or managing stress.

Others, particularly those who are autistic and have a learning disability, may require more comprehensive, long-term support.

Each autistic person’s support needs are different and can vary depending on factors such as environment, mental health, and wellbeing.

Support needs do not reflect a person’s intelligence, value, or potential. Autism is a spectrum, and experiences of independence are as varied as the people themselves.

What Independence Can Look Like

Independence is not a single way of living. It might involve:

• Living alone with occasional check-ins from family, friends, or support workers.

• Living with flatmates or in shared accommodation, with support available if needed.

• Managing routines and responsibilities using planning tools, reminders, and technology.

• Drawing on community resources, peer groups, or mentoring when required.

Accessing support should be seen as a strength; a person is using resources to achieve a meaningful and self-directed life.

Supporting Independence

Families, friends, employers, and professionals can support independence by:

• Listening to autistic people about their goals and needs.

• Offering flexible, tailored support rather than making assumptions.

• Respecting different ways of achieving success.

• Encouraging autonomy and self-advocacy.

Final Thoughts

Independence looks different for everyone. For autistic people, it is shaped by personal preferences, strengths, and the right environment, not by stereotypes or assumptions. Recognising and respecting this diversity is key to challenging outdated views about what autistic people can achieve.