QUALITATIVE RESEARCH ON LIVING STATUS OF OLDER AUTISTIC FAMILIES IN JIAXING CITY, CHINA

Abstract

Objective: It aimed to learn the living status of older autistic children and to put forward countermeasures and suggestions to improve the quality of life of older autistic children and family members. Methods: Literature analysis method was used to understand the related research and policy of older autism in China. Deep interview was conducted with older autistic families. The contents of the interviews were recorded after informed consent, and the recordings were transformed into text materials. Text analysis was carried out. One family was given a six-month psychological intervention. Results: All the 6 cases cannot go out independently and seek emergency help. Only 1 case has self-care ability. The main psychological stress of family member is warrying about children’s future. 5 cases pointed out that adolescent emotional and behavioral problems are urgent problems for parents. Conclusion: It is necessary to apply psychological lectures and counseling for emotional and behavioral management to autism family members. It is important to develop employment policy and caring services. Which are helpful to improve the living status of older autism and family members.