Individuals with autism may be sensitive to the sound of running water, the feeling of water on their skin, and the sensation of being wet. Additionally, they may struggle with the routine and structure of showering.
Furthermore, individuals with Autism generally succumb to health complications approximately 15 to 20 years earlier than the general population. Longitudinal studies that followed people with Autism for over 20 years found that the average life expectancy ranges between 39 years and 58 years.
Bath and Shower time can provide a variety of sensory experiences that can be fun and can help the bedtime wind down routine. However for a child with sensory sensitivities, this activity can be emotional and anxiety provoking.
Transitions can be challenging for Autistics because we often have a monotropic thinking style. We can be so good at hyper-focusing on one task to the degree that we tend to block out any activity around us. I call this my 'escape into Wonderland'.
You could also ``gamify'' the shower. For example, trying to get all the washing rinsing done in 4 minutes. Last idea is have a cozy robe and maybe your favorite candy ready for afterwards. Light a candle, dim the lights and try to shower for pleasure rather than ``because you have to''.
Difficulty with Transition and Routine Changes
Individuals with autism often struggle with transitions and routine changes, which can make showering a challenging task. The shift from one activity to another and the interruption of established routines can cause anxiety and resistance.
ADHD can make sticking to routines, including personal hygiene tasks like showering, brushing your teeth and doing laundry, a constant battle.
Autistic people are more likely to experience mental health difficulties than non-autistic people. About 8 in 10 autistic people experience a mental health challenge during their lifetime. This could include anxiety, depression, eating disorders or psychosis.
Why do kids with autism have a hard time with transitions? Kids with autism can have a hard time with transitions because they prefer routine and predictability. Anything that takes them out of their routine can feel overwhelming.
People avoid showering for a variety of different reasons. This could be because showers worsen a specific health condition. Or simply because it's hard to find the time. Mental health conditions like depression can lower someone's motivation to shower.
Give your child a sense of predictability and control
Talk your child through what will happen first, second, and third. Consider having a waterproof 'To Do' list with simple photos or line drawings of getting into the tub, playing with toys, washing up, washing hair, rinsing, and getting out of the tub.
Although they sound similar, sensory processing difficulties can be present without autism. Often children or adults with other neurodevelopmental or psychiatric conditions such as Developmental Delay, Intellectual Disability, Anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders can also exhibit Sensory Processing Disorder.
Donald Triplett. Donald Gray Triplett (September 8, 1933 – June 15, 2023) was an American banker known for being the first person diagnosed with autism. He was first diagnosed by Leo Kanner in 1943 and was labeled as "Case 1".
Autistic individuals often possess enhanced perceptual abilities, which can provide them with a unique way of experiencing the world. They may have heightened senses, allowing them to notice subtle details or perceive stimuli with greater intensity.
PUBLIC HEALTH IMPLICATIONS
Because suffocation, asphyxiation, and drowning are the leading injury causes of death for individuals with autism, prevention programs specifically targeting these risks must be developed and implemented.
On average, the data showed that siblings with autism share about 66 percent of their genetic material from their father. They only share about 30 percent from their mother. Siblings without autism share just about half of those percentages.
People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. People with ASD may also have different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention. It is important to note that some people without ASD might also have some of these symptoms.
High-functioning autism (HFA) is an informal term used in clinical settings to describe a set of symptoms related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in individuals with an intelligence quotient (IQ) of 70 or higher.
Perseverative thoughts can happen because a person may be trying to manage stress, process information, shift attention, can't stop thinking about certain things, or can't control behaviors. This kind of thinking, or looping thoughts, is not done consciously or on purpose.
The idea that autistic individuals do not want love or intimacy is a bad myth. Everyone, including autistic people, wants to connect with others. They seek the warmth and support found in romantic relationships. Autistic individuals feel love, desire, and heartache just like neurotypical individuals.
One of the most significant factors influencing the avoidance of showers is mental health. Conditions like depression can severely impact motivation and energy levels. Individuals experiencing depression often find even the simplest tasks daunting, leading to neglect of personal hygiene.
Difficulties with changes and transitions
This may make it hard for them to do things like bathing or teeth cleaning as often as is needed. It is quite common for autistic people to struggle to initiate getting in the shower or bath and /or to dislike the change of sensation of going from dry to wet.
Mindfulness and Focus: The intense sensation of cold water can help individuals become more present and mindful, improving focus and reducing feelings of overwhelm.