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India's Autism Crisis: No State Support
19 Oct
Summary
- Parents of autistic adults worry about future care beyond their lifetime.
- Lack of government support forces families into costly private planning.
- Support homes for autistic adults are scarce and facilities can be subpar.
For parents of adults with autism, the looming question of 'who after me?' is a constant source of anxiety. India faces a significant gap in state-funded support services for individuals with autism, compelling families to undertake complex and expensive financial planning for their children's future care. This situation places a substantial emotional and financial burden on caregivers.
Many parents are exploring trust funds and assisted living facilities, as basic care can cost approximately ₹50,000 per month. However, available support homes are often below average, failing to guarantee a dignified life. The India Autism Center is advocating for policy changes, including GST exemption for disability support services, to alleviate the financial strain on families.
Caregiving for individuals with autism takes a severe toll on parents' mental health, often accompanied by guilt. The burden can also fall on siblings, who may feel an unspoken expectation to provide lifelong care. Advocates stress the urgent need for structural and policy reforms to create a more inclusive society for people on the autism spectrum.
