As an autistic adult writing this on a six-degree Fahrenheit morning, I am starting to realize that I am not the only one on the spectrum that has trouble intercepting the temperature in the room to the point where it becomes necessary for me to adjust the necessary thermostat or devices. However, with auxiliary aids such as thermometers, I can understand when it becomes time to prepare or adjust myself or the room temperature for comfort,

There are times when what we are focusing on becomes overwhelming the essential thing and not the preparation of when colder temperatures arise, therefore time will pass and it will become colder than what is necessary for creature comfort, therefore it will be too cold and heating systems will often need to work overtime and especially to prevent water pipes from freezing.

Many autistic adults are not cognizant of the temperature around them and for me as such I have multiple thermometers around my apartment, including one in the tree outside to make me aware of the temperature both inside and outside. This can additionally be accessible when knowing how to dress for the weather to make ourselves comfortable as we may not be able to recognize when it is essential to do so.

There can be a great amount of shock when it comes to when the need arises. For example, it may not be sensible for an additional heater to be put on when the weather becomes additionally frigid or to wear a hat and gloves when traveling outdoors becomes essential. It eventually registers within the autistic person, but at a much later time whenever actions may become consequential, and aid may not be able to be remedied in quick order or recovery may become extremely difficult.

Just as interoception is in many other things in our autistic bodies like knowing thirst, hunger and toileting, understanding and interpreting the temperature both at the moment and in advance in how to prepare both the living environment or whether or not to navigate the outside world is one of those things that can be a challenge if the proper tools are not given to the individual so they are able to interpret the weather at the moment or ahead in preparation of a cold weather event.

It is just one of those skills that are necessary for transitioning into independence that can be a struggle to learn if the skills are not enhanced prior to the transition to independence, especially if the individual is responsible for both the temperature of their living space as well as dressing for the outside elements. It must be one of those skills that is passed down from generation to generation where steps and sometimes reminders are given to the individual on how to properly prepare themselves for extreme weather and temperature events.

Whether the weather matters to an autistic individual, it sometimes is essential for them to be aware, especially in extreme events so they are equally prepared both within their home and while traversing the outside world in order to prevent illness or failure of utility systems, nonetheless, tools are available and education is the key factor in keeping them cognizant of their elements, both inside and outside in order for them to live their lives.