Autism spectrum disorder is a diagnosis that involves difficulties with sensory sensitivity, communication, and social interaction. This condition means that the physical and psychosocial care environment can be experienced as difficult to manage.

This literature review aims to explore adult patients with autism spectrum disorders' experiences of being in a care environment. A literature review was conducted where eight articles of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods were analyzed. Systematic searches were made in the databases Cinahl, PubMed, and PsycInfo.

The results from the analysis were then written down into two main themes and seven sub-themes. The patients testified about experiences in the care environment where needs for adaptations in the physical-, sensory- and psychosocial environment had not been catered for. The patients requested individual adaptations, private spaces, and alternative communication methods. Stress was mainly caused by noise, lack of communication and short care meetings. Several of the deficiencies that emerged could lead to anxiety in the patients. Understanding the specific needs of adults with autism spectrum disorders in the care setting is critical. The care environment needs to become more accommodating when it comes to adaptations and design. Even adaptations to reduce the sensory stimulation can be part of alleviating the often stressful care environment but also to increase the well-being of the patient.