Andorra Advances Autism Inclusion with Sensory Adaptations and Staff Training

Carolina Pastor, technical director of AUTEA, has noted significant progress over the past two years in adapting public and private spaces and services to better include people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in Andorra. Speaking to the Andorran News Agency, she highlighted improvements in areas such as signage and physical layouts, but stressed that these changes must be paired with tailored support and enhanced training for frontline professionals.

Pastor pointed out that certain environments—those with bright lighting, loud music, strong smells, or high crowd density—can be particularly challenging for individuals with ASD. While many can cope temporarily, such settings often lead to neurological fatigue, requiring subsequent rest. For those needing more support, intense sensory input can trigger regulatory crises. She recommended incorporating low-sensitivity or sensory break zones in venues where feasible, allowing people to step away briefly.

The AUTEA director emphasised that needs vary widely across the ASD community, cautioning against uniform solutions like making all spaces quiet or stimulus-free. Instead, she advocated for diverse options enabling different profiles to participate equally. Examples include "quiet hours" during major festivals, which aid those with high auditory sensitivity without replacing standard activities.

Beyond physical adaptations, Pastor called for advances in cognitive accessibility. While pictograms and clearer public signage are positive steps, they often fall short without prior learning, especially for those with communication difficulties or intellectual disabilities. She urged combining these with personalised guidance and staff training, as public-facing workers frequently encounter neurodiverse individuals whose needs may not be immediately apparent.

Pastor cited an example of an Andorran student with ASD who faced insensitive treatment while processing a disability recognition in Barcelona, underscoring the need for better preparation. She proposed dedicated, trained support figures in public services and justice systems, such as the recently introduced judicial facilitator for cognitive accessibility in court processes.

Positive developments include private sector initiatives, like a major company employing a psychologist for clients with specific needs, alongside public efforts in signage and space adjustments. Pastor insisted on balance: adaptations should not eliminate stimulating environments but offer alternatives. "Spaces must cater to everyone, not just neurodiverse people," she said, adding that validation of hypersensitivity through social awareness remains a key area for growth.