Visiting the doctor can be a stressful experience for anyone, but for individuals with autism, it can present unique challenges. Sensory sensitivities, difficulties with communication, and anxiety can make medical appointments overwhelming.
However, with the right preparation and strategies, doctor visits can be more manageable and less stressful for both the individual and their caregivers. That said, let’s look at how you can effectively prepare for doctor visits with autism.
Understanding the Challenges of Doctor Visits
Doctor visits can be challenging for individuals with autism due to several factors. Sensory sensitivities are among the most common difficulties, as the clinical environment can be overwhelming with bright lights, loud sounds, and unfamiliar smells. Additionally, navigating these visits may require individuals to develop certain independent living skills to manage appointments, communicate their needs, and cope with any discomfort they may experience.
Additionally, many individuals with autism struggle with changes in routine and unfamiliar environments, which can heighten feelings of anxiety.
Communication barriers are also a concern. Some individuals with autism have limited verbal communication skills, making it harder to express discomfort, needs, or feelings. This can make it difficult for them to convey what they are experiencing or to understand what is happening during the medical examination.
Finally, social interactions and unknown social norms can lead to discomfort. When medical professionals ask personal questions or physically examine a person, it may feel intrusive and increase anxiety.
Understanding these challenges is crucial to providing support and making the doctor visit a more comfortable experience.
How to Set the Stage for a Successful Appointment
Preparing in advance can significantly reduce the stress of a doctor’s visit. The key is to give the individual ample time to process the visit, understand what will happen, and feel as comfortable as possible.
Here are some practical tips for preparing for doctor visits:
Explain the Visit in Advance
Start by explaining the purpose of the doctor’s visit. Depending on the individual’s age and level of understanding, this may involve using simple language, social stories, or visual aids.
Social stories are short narratives that describe a situation in a way that helps the individual understand what to expect.
For example, you might say, “Today, we are going to see the doctor. The doctor will ask you some questions and check how your body is doing. It may feel strange, but we will be there to help.”
Use Visual Supports and Social Stories
For individuals with autism, visual supports can be a powerful tool for preparing for doctor visits.
Social stories, which are available online or through autism-related resources, can also be a useful way to communicate the expectations of a doctor visit.
Role-Playing
Role-playing can be a great way to prepare for doctor visits. Practice the steps of the visit in a calm and controlled environment. You can act out parts of the visit, such as sitting on an exam table, being weighed, or answering basic questions.
This not only helps familiarize the individual with the process but also provides an opportunity to practice coping strategies.
Discuss Sensory Sensitivities
If the individual has sensory sensitivities, it’s essential to prepare for these. Talk about what they might experience in the doctor’s office, such as bright lights, loud noises, or unfamiliar smells. Offer sensory tools like noise-canceling headphones, a favorite toy, or a comfort item to help ease any sensory overload. Let them know it’s okay to ask for breaks if they feel overwhelmed.
Preparing for the Appointment
The day of the doctor’s visit can be filled with anticipation and anxiety. To ensure a smoother experience, take the time to implement a few key strategies before heading to the appointment.
Here are some tips to consider:
Arrive Early to Avoid Rushed Feelings
Arriving early at the doctor’s office can help alleviate anxiety and allow the individual time to adjust to the new environment. This extra time can be used to explore the waiting room, look at pictures, or get familiar with the layout. It also ensures that there’s no rush during check-in, which can reduce stress.
Prepare the Individual for Waiting
Waiting in the doctor’s office can be difficult for individuals with autism, especially if they struggle with patience or are easily distracted. Bring items that can help pass the time, such as a book, a fidget toy, or a tablet with calming videos.
You can also try setting expectations for how long the wait will be by using a timer or a visual aid.
Communicate with the Doctor and Staff
Before the appointment, communicate with the doctor’s office about the individual’s needs. Let them know if there are any specific accommodations required, such as a quieter waiting area, extra time for the appointment, or a doctor who has experience working with individuals with autism.
The more the medical team understands the individual’s needs, the more successful the visit is likely to be.
After the Appointment
After the appointment, take some time to reflect on the visit. This helps the individual process their experience and prepares them for future doctor visits. Here’s how to effectively reflect and prepare for the next appointment:
Praise and Reinforce Positive Behavior
Regardless of how well the visit went, be sure to praise the individual for their efforts. Reinforce positive behaviors, such as staying calm, communicating their needs, or following instructions. Praise can help build confidence and encourage the individual to feel more comfortable during future doctor visits.
Review the Visit and Discuss Any Issues
After the appointment, review the experience with the individual. Talk about what went well and any areas that could be improved. If there were any challenges, discuss them calmly and figure out ways to address those issues for next time.
This may include practicing specific skills, like staying still during an examination or refining the communication strategies that were used.
Prepare for Future Visits
Preparing for future doctor visits is an ongoing process. If the individual will need to return to the doctor regularly, keep practicing and reinforcing the strategies you’ve learned. Over time, doctor visits can become more familiar and less stressful.
The Key Takeaway
Preparing for doctor visits with autism requires time, patience, and understanding. By breaking the process into manageable steps, using visual supports, and working closely with the doctor’s office, it’s possible to reduce anxiety and create a more positive experience for everyone involved.
Remember that each individual with autism is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.
With flexibility, preparation, and a calm approach, doctor visits can become an easier and more manageable part of life. At Silver Swing ABA, we provide top-quality ABA therapy in Georgia, Arizona, New Jersey, and Utah.
Our compassionate and experienced team is dedicated to helping your family navigate life’s challenges with personalized support. Contact us today to learn how we can make a positive difference for your loved one.
Sources:
- https://www.connecticutchildrens.org/growing-healthy/7-strategies-help-autistic-and-special-needs-kids-prepare-doctors-visit
- https://pathfindersforautism.org/articles/healthcare/pfa-tips-preparing-for-a-visit-to-the-doctor/
- https://www.maximhealthcare.com/healthcare-blog/preparing-your-child-with-autism-for-a-doctors-visit/
