Supporting Someone with Autism

Caregiving or supporting an autistic person can be a lifelong journey. Depending on their needs, the required strengths or skills can vary greatly, with differing levels of support needed.

The OCO has resources that may be able to help.

Steps You Can Take Right Now:

Strengthen the confidence of the person you support when interacting with the world
Build a circle of supportive relationships
Explore their interests and passions in creative ways
Grow their independence and explore their ideas for the future

Get Help

Explore our resources below to find community support, peer groups and more.

Language Statement
OCO recognizes that language used to refer to autism is sensitive and evolving. While there is no firm consensus on language, we follow the recommendation from Autism Ontario to use identity-first language. For more information on this recommendation, read Autism Ontario’s Language Statement.

Useful Links

Support for Caregivers

Autism Ontario – Find information on how to have a child or adult assessed for autism, programs, services and more.

Surrey Place – Services, therapy resources and educational tools for parents and caregivers of autistic people.

Government of Ontario Home & Community Care – Find out if you qualify for government-funded support.

SickKids – Find assessment programs, resources, and services for parents of autistic children.

Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital – Find autism support and services.
Financial and Community Support

Ontario Autism Program – Learn about the Ontario Autism Program and support for autistic children.

Ontario Disability Support Program – Find information about income support, benefits for health costs and other disability supports.

Passport – Funding for people with developmental disabilities.

Capacity-Building Grants for Family Support Networks – The Ontario Caregiver Organization (OCO) provides grants to Family Support Networks (FSNs) in Ontario – peer-based groups for family members and other unpaid caregivers who are supporting adults living with developmental disabilities. This program is funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS).
Planning For the Future

Partners for Planning Network – Find webinars and resources to help you plan for the future.
Additional Resources

ConnectABILITY – Find additional helpful resources, tools, a community hub, and activities.

WATCH

I’m a caregiver

Talia
Caring for: Sister

read

I’m Talia and This is my Caregiving Journey

Love comes in many forms. Read about caregiver Talia’s experiences caring for a sister that is on the autism spectrum.

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