As the definition of autism expands, are we losing sight of those with the greatest needs?

As the definition of autism expands, are we losing sight of those with the greatest needs?

Martin Adams/UnsplashThinking about autism has evolved. Just three decades ago, autism was a relatively rare and clearly defined condition, diagnosed in people with limited verbal language and highly repetitive behaviour. Today, autism is diagnosed along a spectrum of a wide range of abilities, from people who may require 24-hour care to those able to live independently. Around 290,900 Australians are diagnosed with autism, a 42% increase from a…