Choosing the Ideal Living Environment for an Adult with ASD
As an adult with ASD, the choice of living environment can significantly impact one's quality of life. Factors such as personal preferences, cultural adaptability, and social interactions play a crucial role in making this decision. In this article, we will explore different options and provide insights based on individual experiences.
Living in a Big City
This might come as a surprise to some, but many adults with ASD find comfort and fulfillment in bustling metropolises. For instance, Jinichi (a pseudonym for a Japanese individual with ASD) stands by his preference for a big city, specifically a Japanese city, as his place of residence.
Jinichi explains, 'Big city! Big Japanese city to be specific. I love people and enjoy being around them even if they don’t enjoy me so much.' Despite facing social challenges, Jinichi finds solace in the diverse and culturally rich environment of Japan, where his unique way of interacting can go unnoticed and even celebrated.
Living in a Small Beach Town
On the other hand, some adults with ASD prefer quieter, more isolated settings, such as small beach towns. Kazuki (another pseudonym), currently residing in a bustling capital city, expressed a desire to move to a small beach town. He envisions an outdoor job on the beach or a similar setting where he has minimal interaction with permanent residents. This arrangement allows him to ease into conversations and maintain a sense of control, especially during tourist seasons.
Kazuki adds, 'If tourists come up to me and ask questions, it helps a little because they aren’t a permanent resident and they are an outsider and they feel more vulnerable than me and it would give me a boost as the authority person as I’m the one living there and I’d be able to let down the Autism guard a little and try and talk with them.' This scenario provides an opportunity for Kazuki to engage in social interactions in a less stressful environment.
Living in a Small City on the Plains
For Kaori, a small city on the plains holds a special place in her heart. ‘I live in a small city on the plains. Its where I was born and lived for almost nine years. I moved back as an adult because while the city has grown most things that are relevant to me — locations of food, church, etc. — have stayed the same and many of the people who knew me as a child or who were children themselves when I moved still live here. It makes it much easier on me because I don’t have to start a support network and so on from scratch. ’
This decision ensures a smoother transition by leveraging established social connections and familiar routines. For those who thrive in natural settings, the option to live in the woods or even mountainous areas is another viable choice. Kaori mentions, 'I also spend a lot of time in the woods in essentially the middle of nowhere. I would be okay with living there too. Its quiet and nobody expects me to have to do anything while I’m there.' Thus, a connection with nature can provide a serene and peaceful environment conducive to personal growth and well-being.
Living in a City
Many adults with ASD find joy in the vibrancy of city life, as exemplified by Miyuki. 'I live in a city currently. And I love it. I like it better than small country town living.' A city offers numerous amenities, such as transportation, food, and services that cater to the needs of an urban dweller. Additionally, a city provides a natural support network, contributing to a sense of community and belonging.
Conclusion
The ideal living environment for an adult with ASD varies widely based on personal preferences and individual needs. Whether it's the hustle and bustle of a big city, the tranquility of a small village, or a tucked-away beach town, the key is finding a location that offers comfort, social support, and the right level of engagement. Each setting has its unique advantages, and the choice should be made with careful consideration of one’s personal preferences and circumstances.