THE CARE OF THE CAREGIVER IN THE CONTEXT OF NEURODIVERSITY:

The Experience of Fundación CAI from Chile for Latin America.

Abstract

Caring for people with autism and neurodevelopmental special needs is a demanding and challenging journey. Those who care for these people need support to enable them to exercise self-care, as well as opportunities to continue learning about a subject they know from experience. Recognizing this reality, CAI Foundation created the online Network of Caregivers from Chile for Latin America, with the aim of offering spaces for the exchange of knowledge, information of interest and dialogue with specialists, as well as skills for self-care. In this way, the Network has demonstrated the importance of collaboration between caregivers, professional specialists and the general public. Through the Thematic Meetings, the Self-Care Program and the Council of Caregivers, the aim is to improve the quality of life of the caregiver and the cared-for. Thus, this article proposes to discuss how access and participation in a network contribute to social inclusion and empowerment, based on the experience of the aforementioned Foundation, where members of the international cooperation network for education and inclusion - GIEI - participate. Based on this, it will be discussed the care promoted in a network beyond borders, where technology brings cultures together, affection and experiences, helping those who often exercise a solitary, painful and unsupported care.