Electronic Health Reporter

The advantage of technology is that it bridges that gap where traditional services and products fail. The same goes for those on the autism spectrum who may need some additional assistance to tackle everyday tasks. About one in 54 children have been identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The availability of support and care is high on the priority list, as well as development. As it is, technology is making a difference in patient care thanks to informatics. For those with autism, access to better services is not only possible, it’s inevitable.

Improving Social Opportunities For those with Autism 

Just a few short years ago, the thought of attending university or social engagements might have seemed out of reach for those with autism. Apps specifically designed to provide continuous support to those with autism are equipping some with the peace of mind that they have the needed support to attend certain engagements.

From reminders through to personal and immediate telephonic support has seen those with autism successfully attend college and other stressors that may have previously been out of reach. A traffic-light system allows users to let their support person know their level of stress before or during an event, and will equip the support person with the level of attention needed to alleviate the stress. Users can also adjust their stressors and responses to certain situations in order to access more fine-tuned assistance.

Access To Calming and Soothing Tech 

Carers of children and teenagers with autism know that it’s not always easy to calm down an irate child. Emotional management skills are some of the last skills for those on the higher end of the spectrum to learn, which can lead to debilitating meltdowns and outbursts.

Some apps provide a learning process for emotional management that’s easy to learn and adopt for the learner, by taking them through practical and relatable exercises. Additional tech might be required for some of the tech, such as heart rate monitors to alert carers whether a certain topic in the learning acts as a trigger for the child, and methods to calmly work through the exercises.

Nowadays, tech is designed to provide more than just straightforward learning, but to engage the child in play. This makes tech the ideal gifts for autistic children, especially if it allows them to engage their peers without feeling left out.

Assistive Technology Leads To Better Independence 

One of the best ways to get a learner or adult with autism to engage with their surroundings or take on a learning opportunity is by providing them with a confidence boost. Certain apps allow users to engage with the artificial intelligence (AI) who will guide them through a series of tasks or exercises in order to promote confidence.

This not only allows the user to learn new skills, but also feel more equipped in their environment. Technology can also provide unique access to STEM-based education for those who may find it difficult to cope in a classroom environment. The approach might be slightly different, as the tools include 3D-printers, apps, and design programs that allow the student to immerse themselves in the practicality of what they’re learning as opposed to only hearing about the processes from a teacher.

For those with autism, technology provides a much-needed buffer between them and the situations that trigger an episode. It allows them to constantly learn new skills and gain access to education and opportunities that may have previously been extremely hard, even impossible to do.