as a friend im not sure how much to be involved ....

Hi @Hoya,

Would you know for what reason the police stopped your friend?

Ie:was it just random because he was a male alone out at night and they wanted to make sure that he wasn't causing any trouble?

If it was just random like this,then it may be enough just to reassure your friend that it wasn't specific to him and that nothing further needs to be done and that he is no longer on their (the police) mind.

thanks so much for your good advice. Yes I believe it was random, and we have talked about how it was from their side .... but he does find these sort of incidents very stressfull, does not find it easy to make eye contact and all that, and obvioulsy from the police's view, could look suspicious, specially as he finds it hard to communicate with strangers.

I suggested that he write a few lines that could be printed onto a card, like a business card, which explains that he has autism and finds communications with strangers difficult.... etc ... that sort of thing. , don't know if others use this, but I have heard of a man who used this method because he had had a stroke and was often picked up believed to be drunk .

Anyway thanks for all support and feedback

It must be really tough for him.

Especially as he may face difficulties perceiving and interpreting situations,and worrying excessively if he acted appropriately.

Some people with Dementia also use cards like the ones you mentioned and they work providing that the other person (that views it) is already a kind person who has some understanding and compassion.

If your friend walks later at night in an area where it is uncommon to do so,he may want to reconsider that so that way he can avoid future potential stressors or issues occurring.

He may wish to exercise earlier in the day although I don't know how you could suggest this to him in a way that's doesn't come across as imposing on his independance.

thanks for the good info .... i appreciate how you understand well the situation & & how difficult it can be. Yes "worrying excessively if he acted appropriately" is a constant issue ....

your comments are really helpful thanks