Struggling with your work due to autism spectrum disorder (ASD)? Does autism impede your ability to meet occupational responsibilities? Is autism a disability in Canada?
If you’re considering autism disability benefits in Canada for adults and children, you’re likely aware of the upcoming challenges and potential need to consult an autism lawyer.
Eligibility for these benefits involves meeting specific criteria from disability providers and demonstrating the serious impact of your condition on your ability to work. Though seemingly straightforward, proving complete incapacity for work can be exceptionally challenging.
Navigating these hurdles can complicate your life further. This article provides a brief guide on applying for disability benefits for autism in Canada. Following these tips will set you on the right path to obtaining the benefits you need.
Is autism a disability in Canada?
Is autism considered a disability in Canada? Yes, autism is a recognized disability, and Individuals may qualify for disability benefits and specialized accommodations, contingent on the degree of impairment and its impact on daily activities. This ensures tailored support for unique challenges associated with autism within the Canadian disability framework.
For further inquiries about disability benefits and eligibility criteria, you can visit our article on what qualifies as a disability or review the articles listed below:
Is ASD a disability in Canada?
Yes, ASD is considered a disability in Canada. Individuals with ASD may be eligible for disability benefits and support services, as the disorder can significantly impact social, communicative, and daily living skills. Eligibility is based on the severity of impairment and its effects on functioning.
ASD symptoms
ASD symptoms vary widely but commonly include challenges in:
- Social interaction
- Difficulty with communication
- Repetitive behaviors
- Limited interests
- Atypical responses to sensory stimuli
- Struggle with changes in routines
- Delayed language development
The severity and combination of these symptoms will vary between individuals, with showing these traits and some not.
ASD treatment
The treatment for ASD often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including:
- Behavioural therapy
- Speech therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Sometimes, medication to manage specific symptoms
Early intervention and diagnostic and individualized strategies are keys to addressing the unique needs of individuals with ASD.
But note that ASD can’t be cured since it isn’t all illness but is neurodiversity. The above “treatments” are designed to help people with autism communicate and help them understand the world around them.
Is high-functioning autism a disability in Canada?
Yes, high-functioning autism, commonly known as Asperger’s, is recognized as a disability in Canada. Individuals with Asperger’s may qualify for disability benefits, contingent on the extent of their condition’s impact on daily functioning. Eligibility is determined by specific criteria for Asperger’s disability benefits, ensuring tailored support for unique challenges.
High-functioning autism symptoms
High-functioning autism symptoms often include:
- Challenges in social interaction
- Difficulty with nonverbal communication cues
- Intense focus on specific interests
- Adherence to routines
While individuals with high-functioning autism may have average or above-average intelligence, they may struggle with social nuances and flexibility in thinking.
High-functioning autism treatment
Treatment typically involves a multidisciplinary approach:
- Behavioural therapy
- Social skills training
- Speech therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Tailored educational interventions
- Support in developing coping strategies
- Sometimes, medication to address specific symptoms
Again, it’s important to clarify that the above list might not apply to all individuals, and a tailored combination of support is key to helping individuals understand themselves and the world.
Autism spectrum disorder and employment in Canada rights
Navigating employment rights for individuals with ASD in Canada involves understanding the concept of reasonable accommodation.
Employers are obligated under human rights laws to support employees with medical conditions affecting their work, including those with ASD. The provision of reasonable accommodation, such as the flexibility to accommodate sensory sensitivities or tailored work arrangements, is crucial.
In the context of employment and ASD, individuals may explore the availability of an “autism disability allowance.” While such a specific term might not be universally recognized, benefits and accommodations may be accessible through various channels, including government programs and employer policies.
When seeking accommodation or considering sick leave due to the challenges associated with ASD, providing a doctor’s note becomes pivotal.
This documentation should confirm the individual’s inability to work and the need for leave. Regular updates, typically every three to six months, are necessary to maintain the sick leave and, potentially, the autism disability allowance.
In case of a denial of benefits or accommodation, individuals with ASD have the right to appeal while staying on sick leave. Employers are generally expected to respect this process, particularly if supported by a doctor’s note.
It’s essential to be aware of potential legal recourse if an employer attempts to terminate employment while an individual is on sick leave due to ASD-related challenges. Legal rights, including the possibility of severance pay and overturning the termination, may be pursued.
However, the complexity of these situations highlights the importance of relying on a long term disability lawyer to navigate the intricacies of employment rights for individuals with ASD.
If you need legal support, don’t hesitate to contact us today so we can discuss your situation in more detail.
Autism disability benefits Canada 2024
What is a long term disability in relation to ASD, what qualifies as a disability, and which benefits are available to adults and children with ASD? In this chapter we will expand on all of that.
By first examining the benefits tailored for adults and then those for children, we aim to provide an understanding of the support mechanisms in place. In addition, we will delve into the differentiated landscape of provincial benefits, offering insights into the various assistance programs available in different regions of Canada.
Multiple benefits are accessible for individuals with autism. Eligibility may extend to government, employer, or insurer-provided benefits.
The available options encompass a range of programs, including:
- Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits
- CPP disability
- Long-term and short-term disability insurance
- Workers’ Compensation
- Veterans Affairs Canada
- Provincial disability benefits, and
- Disability Tax Credit
This diverse array of resources aims to provide comprehensive support for those navigating the challenges associated with autism spectrum disorder.
Autism benefits for adults in Canada
Benefits for autistic adults in Canada encompass a variety of support programs designed to address the unique challenges associated with ASD.
Understanding and accessing the benefits below is crucial for fostering independence and overall well-being.
Autism disability tax credit (DTC)
In Canada, individuals diagnosed with High-Functioning Autism or Asperger’s may be eligible for the disability tax credit (DTC).
While some label the DTC as the “high-functioning autism disability tax credit” in Canada, the DTC covers a wide range of disabilities.
The DTC is a non-refundable tax credit that provides financial assistance to individuals with disabilities or their supporting family members. To qualify, the effects of the condition must significantly impact daily activities for an extended period.
Applying for the DTC involves submitting a completed certificate (Form T2201) to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). This form requires medical documentation outlining how the condition, such as high-functioning autism or Asperger’s, meets the eligibility criteria.
Successful approval of the DTC may also open doors to other financial benefits, including registered disability savings plans (RDSPs) and the child disability benefit (CDB).
Autism long term disability
Long-term disability (LTD) benefits for individuals with autism can vary, and eligibility often depends on the severity of the condition and its impact on daily functioning.
Predominantly, some individuals may have private insurance policies that offer long-term disability coverage. The specific terms and conditions of these policies can vary widely, but the policy will specify that the benefits last a certain number of years — 2, 5, or 10, for example. Or, it will say they last until you reach a certain age — usually 65.
LTD benefits usually cover 50 to 67% of your monthly salary. You will receive benefits once a month rather than every two weeks. Group and individual policies often include long-term benefits.
In addition, the following benefits can apply for LTD, but we’ll cover them in more detail below:
- Employment Insurance (EI)
- Canadian Pension Plan (CPP) Disability Program
- Provincial Disability Benefits
Understanding that eligibility criteria, application procedures, and benefits can vary across programs is crucial.
You apply for LTD by filling out forms and sending them to the insurer. Once again, you’ll probably have three forms. There should be one for you, your employer, and your doctor. And again, it’s your responsibility to submit them. You won’t get a decision until the insurer receives all the forms.
If your claim gets denied, you can appeal the decision. Your LTD plan may allow two to three internal appeals. After, you would need to do an appeal hearing with an outside judge — or a lawsuit.
Seeking guidance from a disability advocate or legal professional can assist individuals and their families in navigating the intricate process of securing long-term disability benefits for autism, ensuring you don’t get denied long term disability.
Autism Canada Pension Plan Disability (CPP)
How much is a disability check for autism likely to be for adults? Well, this can vary since the Canada Pension Plan disability benefit is calculated based on your contributions to the plan during your working years.
Maximum CPP disability payments 2024 per month are:
- Disability benefit: $1,606.78
- Post-retirement disability benefit: $583.32
- Children’s benefit: $294.12
The amount you receive is based on how much you paid into the program. The more you contribute, the more you’ll get back. If you had a job with a paycheque, you paid into CPP.
Eligibility is determined based on medical evidence and the impact of the disability on your ability to work. You apply for the CPP benefits by submitting the required forms. Your doctor or nurse practitioner will have to fill out the medical report. Then, you send your application to a designated Service Canada office for your province.
If Service Canada denies your claim, you can appeal on two levels. The first is a reconsideration appeal. You must request this appeal within 90 days of denial. If denied again, then you appeal to the Social Security Tribunal. The deadline is 90 days as well.
Engaging with CPP disability lawyers offers personalized assistance financially, guiding individuals through the application process to optimize potential benefits.
If you need assistance in making a disability claim in Canada, contact our team today!
Additional reading: how hard is it to get CPP disability
Autism short term disability
Short-term disability (STD) refers to a temporary period of inability to work due to illness or injury. During this time, employees may be eligible for short-term disability benefits, which typically provide a percentage of their regular income for a specified duration.
The benefits aim to support individuals who are temporarily unable to perform their job duties due to health-related issues.
They pay 50-67% of your regular salary. You can usually get them for 15-17 weeks, but sometimes longer. You’ll typically receive payments every two weeks.
You only qualify if you have a plan through your job. Not all employers offer this to their employees. If your employer doesn’t, you might be able to get EI sickness.
If you qualify for STD, you won’t be eligible for EI. If you can get STD payments, you have to apply for those instead of EI.
You apply by getting the forms from your employer or the insurance company. The application includes three forms: one for you, one for your doctor, and one for your employer. It’s up to you to get all the forms back to the insurer.
If your application gets denied, you can ask for a review. This is called an internal appeal. During the appeal, your claim gets reviewed by someone else in the company. You can have three or four of these appeals. After that, you have to appeal to an outside judge or file with the courts. Your options will depend on your situation.
It’s crucial to review the terms and conditions of the respective programs, insurance policies, or government benefits to determine eligibility and coverage.
Consulting with an HR representative, insurance provider, or short term disability attorneys can provide valuable assistance so you don’t get your short term disability claim denied.
Furthermore, please read our what is short term disability guide.
EI sickness benefits for autism (Employment Insurance)
Employment insurance (EI) sickness benefits can provide crucial support for individuals with autism facing short-term challenges. These benefits are designed to assist those who are unable to work due to illness, injury, or quarantine, including pervasive situations related to autism.
To qualify, you must have paid into the EI program recently. You pay through deductions from your paycheque. These are automatic. So, if you got an official paycheque, you paid into the EI program.
If approved, EI sickness benefits offer financial assistance by providing a percentage of the individual’s average insurable weekly earnings, with a maximum cap. For those who are eligible, EI pays 55% of your salary for 15 weeks.
It’s important to note that eligibility and application requirements can vary, and individuals with autism seeking these benefits, including parents applying for a child, should thoroughly review the criteria outlined by the Canada Employment Insurance Commission.
You apply for EI benefits online through Service Canada or in person at any Service Canada office. Your doctor needs to fill out a form to confirm that you can’t work for the 15 weeks that EI covers. And finally, your employer will need to issue a Record of Employment (ROE) to confirm your sick leave.
Please note: If you qualify for short-term disability, you can’t claim EI benefits at the same time.
Autism Child Disability Benefit (CDB)
The Child disability benefit (CDB) is a tax-free benefit designed to provide additional financial support to families caring for a child with a severe and prolonged physical or mental disability, including autism. The CDB is one component of the Canada child benefit (CCB) program.
Key features of the CDB include:
- Eligibility: The child must be eligible for the Disability tax credit (DTC) — guidance on which we’ve covered above.
- Application: The caregiver or legal guardian needs to complete Form RC66, Canada Child Benefits Application, and Form T2201, Disability Tax Credit Certificate, certified by a medical practitioner.
- Financial Support: The CDB provides additional financial assistance to eligible families caring for a child with a disability. The amount varies based on factors such as family income and the severity of the child’s disability.
- Integration with CCB: The CDB is integrated with the CCB, ensuring that families receive appropriate financial support to address the unique needs of caring for a child with a disability.
Autism Worker’s Compensation
In the context of Workers’ Compensation, coverage for autism-related conditions would generally depend on how the condition is linked to the workplace.
Workers’ Compensation Payments, also known as WorkSafe or WorkCover in some regions, is designed to provide financial assistance and support for workers who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses, potentially resulting in a refund.
If an individual can demonstrate that their autism or related condition was worsened by a workplace injury or illness, they may be eligible for Workers’ Compensation benefits. For example, if there is evidence that exposure to certain elements at the workplace has exacerbated their symptoms of autism, a claim might be considered.
As you’d might expect, the workplace can’t affect autism, as it could a broken leg, however, it’s possible that certain workplace situations could hinder social anxiety or the need for a routine, directly impacting the autistic person’s ability to carry out their job.
It’s extremely difficult — but possible — to prove a workplace injury worsened your autism symptoms.
Historically, worker’s compensation programs only considered mental health claims caused by a single workplace incident. They wouldn’t recognize situations of chronic workplace stress caused over time.
But this is changing. In January 2018, WSIB in Ontario implemented a new policy to allow claims for “chronic mental stress” caused by a worker’s employment. However, not all workers’ compensation programs have adopted this policy. Check with the program in your province to see if it includes chronic mental stress.
To succeed in this claim, you need:
- A doctor to support your belief that a substantial work-related stressor, incident, or injury triggered permanently worsened your autism.
- A diagnosis of autism or a related mental illness.
- You must prove that specific workplace conditions or events are to blame. Workplace harassment and bullying are two common reasons. The workers’ compensation program will also independently verify these events with your employer or co-workers.
If workers’ compensation denies your claim, you must follow the appeal procedures for your province. There are two levels of appeal: the internal reconsideration and the outside tribunal. In most provinces, the tribunal is called the Workers Compensation Appeals Tribunal (WCAT).
This kind of claim is extremely difficult to prove; we highly recommend hiring a lawyer or advocate before you do anything. Contact us today for further support.
VA disability for autism
If you’re a member or former member of the Canadian Forces, you may qualify for short- or long-term benefits from Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC).
To qualify, you must prove that a “service-related injury” worsened your symptoms of autism. You’ll also need a doctor to confirm it.
To make an autism VA claim, you apply online or with a paper form. The VAC will review your service medical records and request more information if necessary.
The VAC follows a familiar pattern for appealing denials: internal reconsideration, then the Veteran’s Review and Appeal Tribunal.
Autism Canada Disability Benefit (CDB)
The Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) is a new unreleased income support program aimed at alleviating poverty among working-age individuals with disabilities. While the CDB has not been launched, it is anticipated to operate in a manner akin to the Guaranteed Income Supplement. Eligible individuals are expected to receive additional financial assistance based on their family income. For more detailed information on eligibility criteria for the new Canada Disability Benefit, refer to our comprehensive guide, Canada disability benefit amount.
Benefits for an autistic child in Canada
The following programs apply for a child disability benefit for autism in Canada: For families caring for a child who has a disability such as autism, there are specific benefits and support programs available to provide financial assistance and address the unique needs associated with autism. Initiating a child disability benefit autism Canada claim is a crucial step in accessing these benefits.
- Child disability benefit (CDB)
- Child disability tax credit (DTC)
- Provincial support programs
- Assistance for education
Please note Resolute Legal does not represent disability claims involving children.
Provincial Canada autism benefits
It is important to note that each province offers its own set of benefits and autism grants for families in Canada, but does autism qualify for ODSP?
The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) is designed to assist people with disabilities in Ontario, providing financial support and other resources. Determining whether autism qualifies for ODSP involves a comprehensive assessment of the severity of impairments and their impact on daily functioning.
The eligibility criteria for ODSP include a consideration of the impact of a disability on an individual’s ability to work and live independently.
While autism itself may not automatically qualify for ODSP, individuals with autism who experience significant impairments that meet the program’s criteria could be eligible. It’s advisable for individuals and families to assess their specific circumstances and consult with ODSP or disability advocates for personalized guidance.
In addition, the below provincial programs aim to address specific needs related to autism and provide financial assistance, therapy services, and other forms of support:
- Therapy Funding: Many provinces provide funding or subsidies to support autism-related therapies, such as applied behavior analysis (ABA) or speech therapy. This assistance helps families cover the costs associated with these essential services.
- Respite Care Services: Provide temporary relief to families and caregivers of individuals with autism. This can include short-term care and support to ensure the well-being of both the individual and their caregivers.
- Educational Support: This may include additional funding for special education programs, classroom support, and resources to facilitate inclusive learning environments.
- Assistive Technology Funding: For the purchase of assistive technology devices and tools to enhance the communication and daily functioning of individuals with autism.
- Community Programs: Designed to promote social inclusion, skill development, and recreational activities for individuals with autism.
- Adult Services: As individuals with autism transition into adulthood, some provinces provide specific services and support programs to address the unique challenges they may face in terms of employment, housing, and community integration.
Additionally, families seeking financial assistance for autism-related needs can access various grants and support programs that could fund therapy, educational resources, and other essential services.
How to apply for autism benefits
As autism is not visibly apparent, benefit providers may question the severity of your symptoms, as they cannot be easily verified. Consequently, there might be a level of skepticism regarding your claim, considering the possibility of symptom exaggeration to present a more disabling condition.
Many individuals with autism effectively manage their symptoms while maintaining employment. Therefore, it becomes crucial to highlight the distinctiveness of your case.
Another essential aspect is elucidating the shift from being able to work in the past to the current inability. For some individuals with autism, a triggering event may exacerbate symptoms, leading to the inability to work.
Alternatively, symptoms may intensify suddenly without a clear cause. If either scenario applies, it is imperative to address and explain these circumstances thoroughly in your application.
If this is you, our team is here to assist you and to take on the uniqueness of your claim.
Appropriate medical diagnosis
As mentioned earlier, an official diagnosis alone is not enough, but you still need to have one. You must meet the Diagnosis and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM) criteria for autism.
Many people with autism also have co-occurring health problems. Some of the most common are:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
If this is the case, you will want to get diagnoses for those conditions as well. Having these other conditions diagnosed can help because it will strengthen your claim and shift the focus beyond autism.
Evidence of new or worsening symptoms
To succeed in this claim, you need to explain why you are now unable to work. In our experience, people with autism will often become incapable of working because of some sort of triggering event. Other times, symptoms will worsen suddenly without any explanation or so-called trigger.
We represented one client with autism whose symptoms became debilitating during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prior to the pandemic, this person was completely capable of working and performing everyday tasks. However, when the pandemic hit, they became immobilized by their symptoms. They were no longer able to go to work and suffered extreme social anxiety. We ended up winning this case because we proved that the triggering event worsened their symptoms.
If you have undergone something similar, you need to make that clear in your application. You should also provide evidence of any new symptoms or symptoms that have become more severe.
Following recommended treatments
When considering your claim, providers will check to see if you received the appropriate treatment and intervention for autism. Not following the recommended treatment is one of the most common reasons for denial.
Failing to comply with accepted treatments typically occurs in two ways:
- Your doctor didn’t follow medically accepted standards for treatment or
- You refused treatment.
Even if you and your doctor believe that alternative methods may work better, you have to try the standard treatments to qualify for benefits. Otherwise, you leave the door open for someone to say that you could work if you had the right treatment.
Autism intervention plans will differ from person to person. However, some of the most common treatments are behavioural interventions, medication, and various kinds of therapies (i.e., cognitive behavioural therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy). Keep in mind that most intervention plans require a combination of a variety of treatments.
Documented treatment plan
While participating in treatment is an important aspect of winning benefits, the documentation of that treatment is equally important.
Even if you had the best treatment plan in the world, insurance companies and disability benefit providers would never approve benefits if there was no documentation of it.
Sometimes, you can’t get appropriate treatment because you’re waiting for an appointment with a psychiatrist or psychologist. In these situations, you can still get approved for disability benefits if your doctor has a well-documented treatment plan.
The plan should make note that you are waiting for a consultation with other specialists. It must also show that you’re doing all other recommended treatments in the meantime.
Evidence of work-related limitations
With an invisible illness like autism, disability benefits providers place great emphasis on how hard you try to stay at work.
It’s not enough to say you can’t do your current job. You also need to prove that you asked for help from your employer to stay in the workforce. Such changes could include fewer hours, easier duties, or changing roles within the company.
You also need to provide evidence to show how hard you tried to stay at work.
This evidence could include the following:
- Medical records discussing your work attempts
- Employment records that show places you tried to work and all accommodations made
- A written statement from you that details your work efforts
- Signed written statements from your employer or co-workers describing how they observed your struggle to work
If you provide strong evidence that shows you tried your best to stay at work, you have a good chance of winning benefits. On the other hand, if you have little evidence of your efforts, you have a very slim chance of gaining approval.
Credibility
Medical and employment evidence will give you some of the best support for your claim, but the decision-makers also need to believe you. In legal settings, credibility refers to a person’s trustworthiness or believability.
A decision-maker who finds you trustworthy may rule in your favour — even if you have weak evidence for your claim. And a decision-maker who doesn’t trust you won’t give you the benefit of the doubt in uncertain areas, even with good evidence. Being credible gives you an invisible edge that many people overlook.
Credibility killers:
- Contradicting medical records or earlier statements
- Making excuses or blaming others for problems
- Criticizing other parties in the claim (even if they deserve it)
- Filing complaints against professionals you see as negative or biased
- Using confrontational language in your claim or testimony
- Refusing or stalling reasonable requests for information
- Fighting with doctors over your diagnosis instead of focusing on the disability
- Acting like a medical expert
Credibility boosters:
- Making sure what you say matches the medical records
- Taking responsibility for bad facts or problems with your claim; not blaming others
- Being cooperative and respectful of everyone in the claim
- Accepting expert advice and opinions
- Making good faith efforts to try all reasonable advice, even if you disagree with it
- Obvious efforts to keep working
Reasons for denial of autism disability benefits in Canada
Several reasons may contribute to the denial of autism disability benefits:
- Insufficient Medical Documentation: If the application lacks comprehensive and detailed medical documentation confirming the diagnosis of autism and its impact on daily functioning, including the presence of the syndrome.
- Incomplete Application: Failing to provide all required information, including supporting documents and evidence of the severity of the condition.
- Lack of Clarity on Work Limitations: If the applicant doesn’t clearly demonstrate how the symptoms of autism, including those associated with the syndrome, significantly limit their ability to perform essential job tasks.
- Failure to Meet Specific Criteria: Disability benefit programs often have specific eligibility criteria. This includes meeting the requirements for the disability tax credit, a prerequisite for many disability benefits.
- Inconsistent Information: Discrepancies or inconsistencies in the information provided, either within the application or compared to medical records.
- Failure to Follow the Appeals Process: If an initial claim is denied, it’s crucial to follow the appeals process promptly within the specified timeframe.
- Perceived Ability to Work: If the disability benefit provider believes that the individual can still perform some type of work, even if it’s not their previous occupation.
Contact our adult autism disability lawyers for claim denial
You have filled out the forms and compiled all the evidence you could —and yet, the letter you receive in the post denies your application for disability benefits.
This is a hard pill to swallow — we know that. But the good news is that you don’t have to accept the decision. You can appeal it instead. Resolute Legal’s lawyers have accumulated years of experience with disability benefits claims, including cases of autism. We know what you are going through and are confident our firm can help you.
You have a choice. You do not have to let insurance companies get away with denying you the support you are entitled to.
Need help with your claim? Call us toll-free today at (888) 480-9050.
With offices in Toronto, Ottawa, Moncton, and Halifax, we cater to clients in every province except Quebec. Most of our services, about 90%, are delivered online, and we will come to you for any in-person needs. Discover more by exploring the pages below:
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FAQs
Does autism qualify for disability tax credit?
Yes, autism does qualify for the disability tax credit. The DTC is a non-refundable tax credit designed to provide financial assistance to individuals with disabilities or their supporting family members. To be eligible for the DTC, the effects of the condition must significantly impact daily activities for an extended period.
Is autism a disability in Ontario?
Yes, autism is considered a disability in Ontario. In Ontario, as in the rest of the country, individuals with autism are recognized as having a neurodevelopmental disorder that can impact various aspects of life. The Ontario government provides support and services for individuals with autism.
Additionally, individuals with autism in Ontario may be eligible for disability benefits and accommodations to ensure equal opportunities in various areas of life.
What kind of disability is autism?
Autism is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder. It is not a physical disability but rather a condition that affects the development and functioning of the brain. The term “autism spectrum disorder” (ASD) encompasses a range of conditions characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication difficulties, and repetitive behaviours.
While autism primarily affects social and communication skills, it can also involve sensory sensitivities and differences in processing information. Autism is considered a lifelong condition, but with early intervention and support, individuals with autism can develop and learn to navigate the challenges associated with the disorder.