Psychologist: Future of children with autism weighs heavily on parents’ minds

Assoc Prof Fauziah says parents often worry and contemplate how they will manage the pressure of meeting their child’s needs as they age.

THE future of a child with autism is the main concern of parents or guardians, says a Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (Upsi) psychology and counselling expert.

Assoc Prof Dr Fauziah Mohd Saad said caring for special needs children was a lot more challenging and stressful compared to caring for other children, especially in countries with a lack of support resources.

“Parents often worry and contemplate how they will manage the pressure of meeting their child’s needs as they age.

“This includes concerns about their child’s future once the parents are no longer around, as well as worrying about who will care for and guide the child after them.

“In light of this, it is important to plan for the future of these special children by seeking community support and assistance, as well as engaging in open discussions with other family members to ensure clear plans are mapped out for their children’s future and provide reassurance to all parties,” said Fauziah.

She said that to address these anxieties, it was crucial for parents to make plans to ensure their children receive the support and care they would need in the future.

“Join support groups for parents of special needs children, or seek assistance from local organisations that provide such support and resources.

“However, addressing these concerns requires patience, perseverance and appropriate resources.

“With the right support, parents can build a stable and resilient future for their children,” she added.

Fauziah’s views echo National Autism Society of Malaysia’s (Nasom) plan to establish the Smart Autism Village (SAVe).

It was previously reported that Nasom had carried out a survey regarding the proposal to establish SAVe as an alternative to better shape the future of autistic children.

The survey carried out by the National Autism Resource Centre (NARC) in July 2021 involved nearly 400 parents and caregivers of autistic children.

Results showed that almost 90% of the target group involved agreed with the proposal to establish a community centre for children with autism.

The survey found that parents or guardians worried about what would happen to their autistic child after their death.

Hence, according to Nasom, it is important to start establishing the groundwork for the setting up of SAVe as soon as possible.

The organisation said SAVe would be a facility complete with various autism-friendly amenities, including the installation of special devices for its residents’ safety.

The location will also open up new opportunities for residents to learn independence and strive to earn a living based on their individual skills, either in agriculture, animal husbandry, painting, craftmaking or sewing.