For autistic people
Pain can feel more intense
Many autistic people are more sensitive to pain. They may also struggle to describe it clearly. Staff may not realise how much pain the person is in. You can help by:
- using simple words or gestures to show where it hurts
- writing things down if speaking is difficult
- asking staff to use clear, direct questions (e.g. “Does it hurt here?”)
Sudden changes can be overwhelming
Hospitals are busy and unpredictable. Autistic people may feel confused, scared or shut down. You can ask staff to:
- explain what is happening and what will happen next
- give time to process information
- avoid rushing or making unexpected changes whenever possible
Sensory needs matter
Wards can be noisy, bright and crowded. This can cause distress. You can ask for:
- a quieter space if available
- dimmed lights or sunglasses
- ear defenders or headphones
- Sensory pack if available
Distress may affect communication
When overwhelmed, autistic people may speak in ways that sound sharp, snappy or angry. This is often a sign of fear, confusion or not feeling safe. Staff may respond harshly if they don’t understand this. You can help by:
- explaining to staff that the person is scared or confused
- asking staff to speak in a calm, caring tone – even if the person has a raised voice
- reminding staff that clear, kind communication helps the person feel safer
Changes happen often in hospital
Beds may be moved, procedures may be delayed or rescheduled. These changes can be very upsetting. You can ask staff to:
- explain any changes clearly and as far in advance as possible
- give simple, direct information about what is happening and why
- tell the person how they can contact staff if they need help (e.g. using the red buzzer)
For family members, friends or partners
You may need to advocate for the autistic person
During an emergency, the autistic person may be in too much pain or distress to explain what they need. You may need to speak up on their behalf about:
- how they experience pain and communicate it
- their sensory needs and what helps them feel calm
- how sudden changes affect them
- how staff should speak to them (e.g. using a calm, caring tone even if the person sounds angry or upset)
Staff may not understand these things unless someone explains. You may need to repeat this information to different staff members over time.
Try to find out what the person wants
If possible, ask the autistic person what they want you to do. For example:
- do they want you to stay with them or leave them in peace?
- do they want you to speak to staff on their behalf?
- do they want help with communication, or would they prefer to do it themselves?
But also, be aware that they may find any questions overwhelming — even from someone they trust. They may not be able to process what you’re saying or respond clearly. Use your best judgement based on how well you know them and what usually helps
Bring comfort items from home
These can help the person feel safer and more settled. Examples include:
- familiar clothes or pyjamas
- sensory items (e.g. weighted blanket, fidget toy)
- headphones and a device to watch favourite shows or listen to music
(You may need to set up logins for streaming services)
Support communication and emotional safety
During pain and distress, the person may not be able to speak or explain what they need. You can:
- stay with them as much as possible, especially during assessments and medical procedures
- speak calmly and clearly
- help staff understand their communication style
Write down their needs
Staff may change often. Having a written list helps you explain things again if needed. Include:
- talking to staff about the person’s most urgent needs
- staying with them until they feel safe
- bringing in the most important comfort items when you can
Useful links for planned hospital visits and healthcare appointments
If you are preparing for a planned hospital visit or healthcare appointment, these resources may help:
Click here for our Reasonable adjustments for planned hospital visits webpage on Autism Space.
Click here for our Preparing for any healthcare appointment webpage on Autism Space.
Click here for our Patient passport (to record needs and preferences) webpage on Autism Space.
Summary
Emergency hospital visits can be especially hard for autistic people. Pain, change and sensory overload can cause distress. Clear communication, comfort items and support from loved ones can help. Staff should listen, adapt and make reasonable adjustments to meet each person’s individual needs — and communicate with warmth and clarity, even during difficult moments.
