Living Independently with an Aide w/ John McFadden and Kate Waltermeyer

Listen Here: https://youtu.be/G7zl20s5BCw

In this episode of Creating Communities for Neurodivergent People, we explore how learning and growth continue long after high school for neurodivergent individuals. Even as adults living independently, executive function and social learning remain essential parts of daily life.

Key topics include:

• Kate’s unique perspective as both John’s aide and someone who has ADHD and is on the Autism Spectrum

• The value and challenges of self-diagnosis as people age

• Kate’s lived experiences with ADHD (focus challenges, hyper-fixation, depression/anxiety, sleep and eating difficulties, and task overwhelm)

• Autism-related needs such as safe spaces, sensory sensitivities, overstimulation, and managing strong emotions

• How Kate and John support each other’s learning in reading, math, cooking, executive function, and social skills

• Why empathy, patience, and mutual respect create a strong aide–client relationship

• The ongoing importance of education and community engagement for neurodivergent adults

Takeaways:

Education never ends, being in community is vital, and independence is an evolving process supported by understanding and collaboration.

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