Autism is a lifelong developmental disorder that affects how a person communicates with, and relates, to other people, and how they experience the world around them.⁶³ It affects people in different ways, so you should adapt your routine according to the patient’s needs. It has been suggested that approximately 45% of autistic people also have learning disabilities,⁶⁴ so for these people you should refer to the section on Examining patients with learning disabilities.