Moving with Autism: How to Maintain Social Connections?

For individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), interacting with others can be difficult, making them especially appreciative of the friendships they have formed. Socialization, particularly in childhood, is incredibly important for autistic individuals as it improves their emotional state and builds confidence in their worth and abilities. However, contact with old acquaintances may weaken or even be lost after relocating to a new place.

Challenges of Moving and Adjusting to Change

The change of environment itself can cause difficulties and lead to stress, especially when there are changes in daily routines. Autistic individuals often struggle to adapt to these changes, but the situation can improve if new acquaintances emerge who can offer support when needed. To avoid worsening the emotional and mental state of an autistic person during a move, they should be prepared in advance, including informing them about potential changes, particularly social ones. A child will adjust better to the new environment if a virtual online “tour” of the neighborhood, where they will live, is organized using video recordings and maps. This can reduce anxiety and distress, which will likely increase during this period.

Logistics and Support for Smooth Transition

It is crucial that the move proceeds without issues, especially in terms of logistics. It is wiser to invest in professional moving services than to deal with the stress caused by minor issues that could affect the autistic individual. Later, the person should be supported in adjusting to the new surroundings, helping them acclimatize and start building connections, for instance, with neighbors.

Predictable Routine and Familiar Traditions

One way to alleviate stress is by developing a predictable daily routine, which will likely change. For autistic individuals, sticking to a precise schedule is not just a matter of habit, but a way to reduce anxiety. It is also helpful to choose a new home with a similar layout to the old one. Maintaining familiar family traditions is equally important, as it makes adapting to other changes easier and more manageable.

Staying Connected with Old Friends

It’s not necessary to say goodbye to friends — staying in contact with them is possible through technology, such as video calls, social media interactions, or email. However, it’s also important to embrace new opportunities to build connections:

• Autistic individuals may benefit from joining a club or group with shared interests.
• Participation in events designed for those diagnosed with ASD can also be beneficial.
• Visiting public centers or libraries, where they can meet new people in a calm and friendly atmosphere, may also help.
• It is important to ensure that the home remains a safe and comfortable environment for the autistic person, as it is their most secure place to relax.

Supporting Social Skills Development

Family members can help improve communication skills by modeling social behavior and explaining how to initiate conversations and maintain relationships. It is also essential to accompany the individual to public events until they feel comfortable. Social skills can be developed through specialized programs, including virtual reality, which allow individuals to practice appropriate behavior in various situations. Online forums and social media groups provide a space for sharing life experiences and interests without direct personal contact, which could be stressful.

Using Traditional and Innovative Strategies

By using both traditional and innovative strategies, the disruption of established habits and social connections, which can often occur after a move, can be avoided. However, the best way to prevent this, as well as stress-related consequences and heightened anxiety, is through cell therapy, which can lead to the disappearance or significant alleviation of autism symptoms.

Cell Therapy for Autism Treatment

Stem cell transplantation allows the stem cells to transform into healthy analogs of damaged brain cells, replacing them. This results in the brain and nervous system starting to function as they were intended by nature, including appropriately responding to external stimuli. As a result, the individual’s overall development and social skills accelerate, which can be further supported by auxiliary methods of treating autism and its manifestations.

This modern, safe, and effective technology has become a cornerstone in combating ASD. It is currently used in leading clinics worldwide, including the Mardaleishvili Medical Center. The center’s highly qualified specialists, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, have successfully been helping autistic individuals overcome their condition and its consequences for years. Additionally, services are more affordable compared to other countries, and assistance is available with trip planning and accommodation during the rehabilitation period.

Allow Your Child to Experience the Joy of Communication — Use Cell Therapy!