From Panic to Planning: Adult Autism Life Skills that Work

In this episode of Autism Labs, Mike Carr begins a series on transitioning to adulthood for those with profound autism, sharing research-based strategies and personal stories from raising his 35-year-old son, Michael. He stresses early planning—starting at age 14 with the IEP—and teaches independent living skills like hygiene, dressing, and communication using tools like visual aids, adaptive clothing, and the TouchChat app. Mike also tackles employment challenges, showing how combining work with activities like climbing brought joy and purpose to Michael’s life. His core message: with the right mindset and planning, even the most profound diagnoses can lead to fulfilling adulthood.