Future

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What does the future look like for an adult with autism? Should they expect to be alone and have little to no friends? What is the likelihood of sustaining a full time job?

How are we to know? I thought I'd never get a job but I got one and sure I still live at home but I think I could move out, though it would be difficult. But it's something that would have to be done because I know I'm capable of it.

It depends on the severity of symptoms. Those with mild AS could get a job and live independently. More moderate symptoms may make it hard for them to work, though they still could. More severe or classic autism and it may seem impossible, but with a leg up from a disability network and patience from parents and family they could get a job.
You never know though. Even the most severest cases can surprise you. I remember when I started talking to people and when I got my first boyfriend people were really surprised. They didn't expect it. People are even like that when I decide to wear a dress.
As for friendships well they depends on severity too. And it really depends on choices. You can choose to not work, not live independently and choose not to have friends. Or sometimes you really want all that but find it difficult.

I am almost 60 years old and I am full time employed. I have supported myself all my life, kept myself fed and housed and lasted this long. I left home at 17 with no parental support and though I have made a lot of mistakes and unwise decisions, I seem to have made more good ones than bad ones as I am still standing and still alive.

I see no reason why you can't cope and find your own way, too. Just don't get caught up in trying to be something you aren't. Take it one day at a time and do your level best. Good luck!

Merle

It really depends on the type of autism you have, its severity and what resources/supports you have as to whether you can live independently and/or hold down a full-time job.

How much money have you got?

Anyone with money can get by fine.

The world doesn't care about mental health or status labels ... all the world cares about is money.

It's all about money. How about personality? How about charm? I guess that money makes the world go round.

I'm sure it can all be done. I've held a job down for almost the whole of my life, though I was undiagnosed until very recently. Naturally it's been very stressful at times, and even now when I should be used to the world of work, I see it as something that at best pushes me to one side of my life, but it's tolerable. As for friends, I've never been completely friendless, though it's been dangerously near to that from time to time.

There's a saying....if you don't get what you want, it's because you didn't want it enough. Seems very true of me - once I've made up my mind that I must achieve something, I usually get there.

I think it's easier to hold down a job if you disclose your diagnosis to your employer because it just makes them aware that there will be certain things you will find difficult. I've had a lot of problems at work in the past and a lot of warnings and stuff (before being diagnosed) so in my most recent job I told my manager up front and found that it helped a lot. The other thing to bear in mind is that you don't necessarily have to work full time if you feel it's too much.

As for relationships I have NO idea. I've never had one but looking at other people on WP it does seem to be possible. My psychologist seems to think that it'd be a good idea for me to meet other Aspies and see how I get on with them and I guess I'll do that at some point in the future.

I think it's very much about how much your prepared to try for things. Good luck