Creating Quality of Life for Adults on the Autism Spectrum: A Groundbreaking Model

By Jeanne Dennler, Carol S. Quick, and Ruth Wilson, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the first farmstead community for adults with autism established in North America, Bittersweet Farms.

The book offers a detailed description and evaluation of the innovative intervention model used to promote quality of life for adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who reside at Bittersweet Farms. This model aims to provide a deeper understanding of the needs of adults with ASD, often misunderstood, and meets their residential and therapeutic requirements.

A Deeper Appreciation of Adults with Autism

Through its in-depth exploration of the Bittersweet Farms model, this book enables a deeper appreciation of the unique needs of adults with ASD. It discusses the apprenticeship model used at Bittersweet Farms, along with examples of how residents benefit from this approach, and expands upon its approach through the inclusion of specific guidelines for improved communication and social interaction, managing troublesome behaviors, calming anxieties, and establishing daily routines.

These guidelines reflect a positive approach to intervention, consistent with the quality-of-life emphasis inherent in the Bittersweet model. This approach focuses on promoting independence, self-advocacy, and overall well-being for adults with ASD.

A Valuable Resource for Professionals and Families

This book will serve as a seminal work for professionals and paraprofessionals working with people with ASD. It will also be of great interest to parents and relatives of people with ASD, researchers, and policymakers concerned about the ASD adult population, and those interested in services for people with ASD.

With its comprehensive approach and focus on quality of life, this book provides a unique perspective on supporting adults with ASD. It is an essential resource for anyone looking to improve their understanding of ASD and provide better support for this population.

Publisher: Routledge; 1st edition (November 30, 2022)

Language: English

Format: Hardcover, 216 pages

ISBN-10: 1032220643

ISBN-13: 978-1032220642