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Introduction
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects everyone differently. ASD’s characteristics are language delays, uncomfortable social interactions, and irrational behaviour, to name a few. While autism is a lifelong aspect of a person’s identity, early diagnosis and therapy can significantly enhance well-being and support development. Therefore, it is crucial for us to stay informed about, research, and promote advances in autism treatment and support as a society.
Let’s understand ASD better
It’s important to realise that Autistic Spectrum Disorder is not a “disease.” ASD is a neurological disorder/variation. Research has now confirmed that there are many genes responsible for ASD.
Keeping that in mind, it’s crucial to understand – autism has very diverse effects on people. Some of the more common traits of ASD are –
- challenges in social interactions
- building and maintaining relationships
- understanding feelings
- expressing themselves
- repetitive behaviours
- language delay
- underdeveloped motor skills
- difficulty in learning
That being said – autism doesn’t always only “limit” an individual. Those on the spectrum can also be gifted with unique strengths like the ability to pay attention to the minutest of details, strong sense of music, quick problem-solving, logical thinking, creative imagination etc.
Why is early diagnosis and intervention important?
Children can show symptoms of autism as early as 12-18 months of age. If these symptoms go unnoticed then children can grow up with more challenges and severe symptoms to lead a poorer quality of life.
Early diagnosis is usually ignored when parents, caretakers, and family don’t understand their behaviour. Their peers also bully them and disable their ability to express their discomfort and dislikes. Worse still, their strengths get ignored. This further debilitates the child’s condition and may lead to more mental health issues.
All this is avoidable with – more awareness, better diagnosis methods, intensive care, and improved research in the field.
Technology and ASD –
Improved tech is a must to help scientists find good intervention methods.
However, most people think technology would be too hard to use for those on the autism spectrum. But this is a misconception. Many studies have shown that autistic individuals get attracted to devices like TVs, laptops, phones, etc. This is because technology gives them a sense of structure.
Nowadays, assistive technology also helps people with ASD
- communicate
- learn
- do daily tasks
- be independent
The following are accessible apps made specially for neurodivergent individuals –
Proloquo2Go
Proloquo2Go is an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) app. It’s designed to help non-speaking children and adults express themselves.
It has a user-friendly interface with over 10,000 symbols and natural-sounding voices. Users can start conversations easily, and the app supports various access methods.
For example, direct touch, switch control, and scanning options. The app can be personalised for different users, making it adaptable to individual needs and preferences.
Touch and Learn
Touch and Learn is an app that helps children understand emotions through interactive games. It uses over 100 images to teach children about different emotions and body language.
The game-like format keeps children engaged while they learn to recognize and respond to various emotional cues. It is a valuable tool for developing social skills in autistic children.
Otsimo
Otsimo offers a game-based learning platform for education at home. It teaches speech and basic educational skills to children on the autism spectrum.
You will get customised curriculums tailored to each child’s needs. The app’s interactive nature helps keep children motivated and engaged while learning essential skills.
Model Me Going Places
Model Me Going Places is a visual teaching tool. It uses video modelling to help children with autism navigate various social situations.
The app features short videos that show appropriate behaviour in different settings. For example, a doctor’s office or a grocery store.
This helps children understand and prepare for real-life experiences by watching and learning from these modelled behaviours.
Social Adventures
Social Adventures is an app that helps children develop social skills through fun activities.
It includes games and exercises that focus on essential social skills like taking turns, listening, and understanding social cues. The app can be used by parents, therapists, and educators to support children in building meaningful social interactions.
Conclusion
Early diagnosis plus personalised therapy plans can help children with autism achieve their full potential. Assistive technologies like Proloquo2Go, Touch and Learn, etc. are helping autistic individuals improve communication, learning, and social skills.
As research and technology continue to advance, the future of autism treatment and support holds great promise. These developments facilitate better communication and learning for individuals with autism. They also empower them to gain greater independence and integrate more fully into society.
The ongoing progress in this field highlights the critical importance of continued research and the promotion of awareness. It will ultimately make way for a more inclusive and understanding world for individuals with autism.
