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Every day, millions of people and their families live with aspects of the Autism spectrum. Perhaps not quickly enough, we continue to build knowledge and acceptance of the individualism that we all represent. Autism is how a person's brain is wired, and more something that can be harnessed or helped with learning style or empowerment options, not something needing to be fixed.
"Autism spectrum is clinically recognised by specialists or teams of specialists who usually have significant experience.. In fact though, it tells you remarkably little about any individual person, or their particular challenges and strengths". Source
As these families attest..
“If you ever met our Alivia, she is just so very special. Most of the time I don't find autism to be the struggle, I find other people's understanding of autism to be the struggle." Source
And Dad of Luke, and Autism Research Trust team member, Andrew Buisson says.
“As I now know, autism affects more than 1 in 100* people, but at the time of diagnosis you feel extremely lost and alone. If the last decade has taught me anything, it is that knowledge is power. With information comes options, support, hope, change.”
(* this figure is widely estimated by experts now to be 1 in 70)
With insights such as those above, it makes sense that we should start with what's best for individual needs and preferences, and then get informed about choices to serve those needs.
Technology is neither the priority, nor the answer. However, there are new options with health, home and assistive technology that can make daily life, learning, communicating and being healthy - easier.
In this article, we will explore some of the technologies available and the benefits they can provide. Read more about how we choose, here.
Why is it hard to know what Autism related technology devices exist? Identifying devices can be difficult for a variety of reasons.
There is no one-size-fits-all: There are a broad range of age, stages, symptoms, and needs between people with a diagnosis — which means there’s no one device that will suit everyone.
Technology changes quickly: This makes it difficult and time-consuming for those diagnosed as being on the Autism spectrum, health professionals, carers, and families to follow what’s new, effective, approved, or helpful.
Some helpful technology may not be ‘tagged’ as being suited for Autism: These include voice assistants, medication reminders, smartwatches tracking health vitals and data, smart home devices, and more.
Please consult with your support team to ensure the best fit for your specific situation. This collection is also available to search, filter, and share online, here.
Quick Guide: 24 Top Products to Assist Those with Autism Spectrum
Communicating:
Tobii Dynavox range: Speech-generating devices controlled with eye-gaze or hands for easy communication
Proloquo2Go app: Best symbol-based iOS app for assistive communication
GoTalk: Best physical buttons ACC device (iOS app also available)
Ablenet: Assistive technology devices for learning and communication
Emergency safety:
5. ICE4Autism App: A first-of-its-kind app for emergency response.
Being Found:
6. Life360: App: Checking location, alerts
7. AirTag: Locating in suburban areas
8. Angelsense: Special needs GPS tracker (non-removable)
9. Jiobit: Sleek and minimalist GPS tracker (and Suresafe)
10. SmartSole: Discreet GPS tracker in your shoe
11. B'zT: Proximity-based tracker in cute clothing patches for kids
Learn, Play, Organise:
12. Autism Apps: A collection of Apps reviewed by specialists
13. Gemiini: Speech, Reading & Behavioral Skills for Autism
14. Tiimo: Planning and Organisation
15. Goally: Therapy device and apps for daily routines
16. Apple iPad: Learn, work and create with Accessibility settings
17 Voice Assistant devices (Google and Alexa): For play and daily organization
18. Skoog: An accessible music device
19. Blipbox: Music Synthesizer for all ages and abilities
Health and Calm
20. Empatica's Embrace: Wristwatch that detects epilepsy
21. Nuheara IQbuds2 Max: Advanced Hearing Buds reducing noise and overload.
22. Apple Watch : Help, communication and health
23. Touchpoint Calm: Wearable wrist bracelets helping to bring calm
24. General Health: For staying on track with health including sleep, seizures and general health
Communicating
Being able to express yourself is essential for socialization, confidence, and general well-being. For those with autism, communication is a challenge, with some individuals being non-verbal, and others having limited speech.
There is a multitude of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices that may help support or recreate natural speech. In the past, AAC was basic and limited to the use of picture boards or cards.
Now, with the use of technology, AAC devices have become more sophisticated to help individuals express themselves in richer and fuller ways.
1. Tobii Dynavox range: Best eye gaze-enables speech generation device
Tobii is a company that produces a wide range of devices and apps to assist with communication for those who are non-verbal or verbally limited. They have a division dedicated to different physical and cognitive needs and an experienced team.
Their most innovative and popular products are the I-Series, EyeMobile Plus, and Indi.
The Products are designed like tablets and can be either controlled with eye-gaze, hands, head-mouse or switch scanning depending on individual needs. The user simply selects different communication icons or symbols and the device will generate speech on their behalf.
Some of the devices can be set up with social media, email, and calling apps for limitless communication! Products are designed for daily, rugged use with protective casings.
The company was founded in 2001 and has a solid set of investors, partners, awards, and testimonials.
2. Proloquo2Go App: Symbol-based for assistive communication
This powerful symbols-based app helps individuals with daily communication and language skills development. Simply download the app on your iOS device. The user selects the different symbols and the iOS device will say the message.
The intuitive interface makes it easy for new users to get started, but they've also designed it to be easily customizable to a wide range of communicators — from single words to full sentences.
Core words always remain in the same place for easy access, but users can build on that by adding different vocabulary levels. Choose from 100 voices, ranging from friendly adult voices to genuine children’s voices and bilingual voices. The voices are created using real recorded speech, making them feel natural. For some languages, you even have multiple options.
The Proloquo2Go product is widely recognized and preferred by parents, therapists, teachers, and users around the world as the gold standard in AAC solutions, with thousands of 4.8/5 star ratings on the AppStore.
Headquartered in Amsterdam, inspired by personal experience and founded in 2000, they have a powerful range of reputable assistive communication products.
"Alarna, Tyrone’s mother, always considered herself an advocate for her son, however, now that he is using Proloquo2Go she has found that he can speak for himself." — Proloquo2Go user
3. GoTalk: Physical button Assistive Communication device (App available)
With over 25 years of experience in the ACC industry, Attainment (the company that produces GoTalk) is familiar with the needs of individuals in this area.
Their most basic device is the GoTalk 4+ which comes with 6 physical buttons, and this can go up to 32 buttons on their GoTalk Express 32 model. You can customize your buttons with your own symbols and record multiple essential messages on each device.
This range is great for users that want a simple, basic, and rugged device that can withstand daily use. They've also launched a mobile app version of their GoTalk devices for those that prefer digital buttons.
The products are being used by both adults and children, for example, here’s how one mother describes the impact of GoTalk on her grown son:
"Without this device, my 36-year-old severely autistic son would experience major frustration trying to explain himself. While it took years for him to adapt to it, it finally paid off after much time. He is now able to communicate ‘toilet, hungry, go for a ride, go to Walmart', etc. I thank all of you from the bottom of our hearts for this wonderful tool."
— Travas
4. Ablenet: Wide variety of assistive technology devices for learning and communication
Ablenet is an assistive technology company that produces a whole range of devices to widen the possibilities of those with special needs.
Their products include:
Switches
AAC devices
Special needs curriculum
Accessible toys
Support devices for computer and table access
Ablenet is a great one-stop-shop for those that want comprehensive support in combining various assistive technologies to complement one another.
Emergency Safety
5. ICE4Autism App: Autism-specific emergency app
Those with autism may require special considerations in an emergency because of specific communication, medical, or sensory needs.
The ICE4Autism can help by capturing information that provides first responders or medical personnel with actionable information specifically relating to the needs of people with Autism.
With this information clearly presented in a single app, it helps others help you better.
Simply download the app on your smartphone and it will have all your vital information and special functions like:
Personal details: Name, DOB, blood type, and more.
Autism-specific needs: how you prefer to communicate, unique behaviors, specific treatment information, and more.
Your emergency contacts: Including GPS location which you can send to your contacts.
Pre-recorded emergency messages, in case you are not able to verbalize your needs.
Other special information you'd like emergency personnel to know, and more!
The product was developed in conjunction with the community and specialists and has an average rating of 5/5 stars on the App Store.
Being Found
Wandering off is a common challenge — especially in the younger age groups. Studies have found that 49% of parents reported that their child with ASD had wandered off at least once after the age of 4.
There are a host of GPS tracking devices that can help ease worries when a loved one goes out of sight. The sensory needs and preference will depend if a clip, bracelet, watch, pendant is preferred, or a more integrated and less visible wearable device.
6. Life360
Life360 is a mobile app for families to know the whereabouts of each other. More than "find my phone", this product allows you to manage your close family or friends, with features that help enable safety and independence.
Features include:
Set up your family members and connect securely
Locate someone in your circle, including map and directions to reach them
Set up places, bubbles and locations, such as school or a bus stop, and be notified when someone leaves or arrives in the bubble
Detect a crash or call emergency services
Offers an SOS button in the event of emergency
Retrace steps, stops and past locations on a map (premium version)
Show the battery level %, or low battery
Life360 has shared positive customer stories from families with Autism, and more broadly has over 32k 4.7 star reviews. The company is owned by Jiobit (see below).
Apple's Airtag is a small, circular device that helps you keep track of your items. It uses Bluetooth connectivity to connect to your iPhone or iPad, allowing you to see the item's location on a map in the Find My app.
The AirTag is waterproof and dust-resistant
It has a built-in speaker that plays a sound to help you locate your item if it's nearby.
The AirTag's battery lasts for about a year and is easily replaceable.
It uses Apple's U1 chip and precision finding technology to provide more precise location information.
The AirTag can It can be attached to items such as keys, wallets, bags, and with clips, keyrings, bracelets, belt holders etc
There's a lost mode that allows you to receive a notification when it's detected in the Find My network, and you can add a contact number for the person who finds it to call you.
The AirTag can be set up in just a few simple steps and is designed to be user-friendly.
There are possibilities to use this to locate someone if needed, or lost items. It is best used in built up, or suburban streets, schools, shopping centres etc with higher traffic, as it requires other iPhones to be active in the vicinity in order for the location to be picked up and the location shared securely.
8. Angelsense: Special needs GPS tracker (non-removable)
The Angelsense GPS tracker is designed for individuals of all ages with special needs. It can be worn in different discreet ways that do not interfere with daily movement or sensory sensitivities.
It has the following features that keep in mind the different sensory and practical needs of those living with autism:
Live GPS tracking, direct to your smartphone app for carers' pace of mind.
Non-removable wearing by user: It can be affixed with security tags similar to the ones you find in the clothing store.
Multiple discrete wearing options: Secure it onto the back of your waistband, under your shirt, on a bag strap, wristband, and more!
2-way auto-answer speakerphone that allows you to speak to your loved one in an emergency.
Get alerts if your loved one wanders off to unfamiliar places.
Battery lasts up to 24 hours
SOS button.
Carers report that they had the peace of mind to give loved ones more freedom when they knew that the Angelsense was there to help during unplanned events and emergencies.
The Jiobit GPS tracker stands out because of its sleek and subtle design. It's small (about the size of an Oreo), and lightweight so it won't interfere with daily activities. Jiobit is also protected by a dedicated security chip and government-level encryption. Cryptographically signed software protects the OS from malware.
Key features include:
Real-time, accurate GPS tracking to your smartphone app — multiple people can link to 1 tracker.
Get notifications if your loved one is outside your listed "Trusted Places".
The timeline feature lets you backtrack and see where your loved one has gone.
An alert button that the user can press if they need help.
Long-lasting battery life: Up to a week
Multiple wearing options: Clip it on your waistband, wear it as a necklace, and more!
Non-removable wearing options: Attach it on with security tags that are similar to those you find in clothing stores. A special key is needed to remove it.
Joibit is available in the US. For other regions such as the UK and Australia, refer to Suresafe. They are trusted by numerous aged and assistive care providers, provide flexible wearing options and offer solid functionality.
"Great for kids with Autism. This is a fantastic [product and] app to help keep track of my son with Autism. It allows me to give him more freedom to be independent while still keeping him safe." — Zmelda on App Store
10. SmartSole: Discreet GPS tracker in your shoe
The SmartSole is appealing for those that need a GPS that may be removed or discarded, as it will not be visible to others. It's integrated into a shoe sole, so all you need to do is trim it down to fit your size and insert it into your shoe.
This is great for those with sensory issues or if you're worried about forgetting to bring your tracker with you.
Features include:
Use an online account or SmartLocator app to get location mapping and location history list.
Receive alerts if the user leaves your specific "Geozones".
Battery life: 1-2 days.
Charge by placing sole on charger pad.
At this point, sizing is only available for adults.
As the product uses a telecoms connection (ie. it requires a relationship with a local provider), check out the product link above for features and through to providers in your region. The product is currently undergoing testing for its next 4G version, is available to waitlist, and invites interest for additional distributors across geographic regions.
11. B'zT: Proximity-based tracker in cute clothing patches for kids
B'zT integrates their washable tracking chip into fun clothing patches so that it's completely hidden. You can buy a patch embedded with a chip, or a range of t-shirts in sizes and colors, and set the tracking up for a group or individual.
It works best for those that only need to track their child in relatively close proximity as the chip connects to your smartphone app through Bluetooth.
Here's a look at its features:
Syncs to your smartphone app to show your child's location.
When your child is more than 25-45ft (max. 260ft) away, your app will alert you.
Machine washable.
No charging required — can last up to 1 year.
Multiple users can connect to the same chipset.
It can come in handy when you want to be alert at the time that someone has left a group, school, or home, excursions, or when you're in crowded or public places. The product was nominated for a TIME invention of the year. The product works worldwide, but it does not yet ship to all countries, so you may wish to contact the provider via the link above, for exemptions or to seek local distributors.
Learn, Play and Work
Being productive through learning or work is crucial for personal growth and fulfillment. With various advancements in technology, what individuals with autism are able to achieve in their careers and development are constantly expanding.
Here's a look at some top products that can help with the process:
12. Apps: Apps for Autism (& Apple Autism Collection)
There are a large number of Apps that may benefit the needs and learning styles relevant to those on the spectrum. These relate to speech, emotions, and social skills, fine motor skills, maths and numeracy, special interests and entertainment, and daily organisation and independence.
We’ve considered many of the often highly rated apps available and elected to share a list of our top 3 super-sets of Autism apps. We’ve provided these because they are reputable sources, whose Apps or collections have been reviewed, collated, or developed in consultation with health specialists. Researching these providers and Autism apps shows a high level of agreement in the best apps across the providers.
i) ‘Autism Apps’. This website is currently updating its collection, and has been developed by the Autism Association of Western Australia in response to the many parents, teachers, and individuals who have asked how to effectively use technology to support a person with Autism. We like it because the Apps are internationally available, and have been reviewed by specialists, and star-rated on a range of measures. Filters can be used according to age, capability, or rating, in categories.
ii) Assistiveware. Was founded in 2000 and is a leader and pioneer in the field of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and assistive technology software. They are the makers of the popular Proloquo, with a bundled set of apps available on the App Store, and 350,000 customers worldwide.
iii) Autism Parenting App Recommendations 2023. This publication is an award-winning Parenting Magazine aimed at improving the quality of life for families affected by autism. Their approach is hopeful, and positive, is released over years, and with links to providers across iPad, iPhone, and Android.
iv) Apple’s Top Picks for Autism. The technology giants Autism Acceptance Day List of the top-performing, meaning downloaded and rated, apps. Here you’ll find a list of 20 apps under the headings of Communications, Lifeskills, Games & Music, and a special set for the Apple Watch.
13. Gemiini - Speech, Reading & Behavioral Skills for Autism
Gemiini is a clinically validated program that provides 100% web-based, on-demand therapy. Children and adults experiencing Autism, Down Syndrome, or speech-language delay are benefiting from learning speech, reading, language, life, and social skills that are used in daily interactions.
"Gemiini is one of the first tools we have seen that could legitimately be called a breakthrough... Our staff believes that Gemiini will revolutionize the way we teach language to children with language delays. "
- Keri Jones, CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist Pullman Regional Hospital (WA)
"We're in Australia and our son is almost 5. He's been almost completely non-verbal. We have tried to encourage speech the entire time but only started using Gemini last month. He just said two words in the first session. We are still in disbelief. It was hard to hold back tears."
- Mark L. (parent)
14. Tiimo: Visual Planner App for Watch, Apple & Android
Tiimo is a visual planning app available on smartphones and smart watches that helps you manage your daily life and improve wellbeing with customizable, playful and visual way of planning your daily life and achieving your goals.
On the surface, Tiimo can feel like any other calendar or organizer, but it’s focus on routine and breaking tasks down, alongside a focus on visual guidance puts it in front of other planners.
Tiimo has a focus on neurodiversity, so users with ADHD or autism, for example, might find its visual and assistive planning approach particularly helpful. It also has joint use functionality which could prove useful for parents assisting their children in a routine.
Tiimo offers a basic free version of the app and a paid version with full access to all the Tiimo features. It is available on both Android and iOS devices..
Tiimo works by creating a visual schedule in the app, and then Tiimo will remind you of your schedule during the day. The Tiimo app provides ongoing reminders of your schedule and nudges when activities are starting and ending. You can add an icon and a checklist to each activity. A visual timeline prevents you from spending too much time on one task. Notifications let you know when it's time to change activity. You choose how often you get notified.
15. Goally: Therapy apps to organize the day
Goally offers a bundle of therapy apps to support special needs individuals in their daily scheduling or behavior management — ultimately helping with building routines, productivity and independence.
The apps can be used on your regular smartphone or Goally's own distraction-free device that only has their apps on it.
Features include:
Visual schedules so your child can always anticipate what is coming next.
Digital token boards for recognizing achievements and behavioral management.
Visual timer for activities.
Behavior tracking and reports for analysis.
Allow multiple carers to access data for easy team coordination.
Here's a look at what one person using had to say about Goally:
"Works well for us. I can edit routines on the fly, award extra points for doing something special and start those unscheduled routines when I need them." — Melissa
16 Apple iPad: For learning, games and routines
Apple's iPad will be a well known choice of tools to support individual needs. It comes in various sizes and price ranges including a Pro, Air and Mini.
The iPad can be used for learning, playing, routines and millions of apps. Some of the less known considerations include:
Single Focus. Guided Access mode, is a setting which allows focus to be restricted to only one app, helping reduce distractions, and ensuring an iPad that may be used for learning and games, can be locked for the specific purpose needed at the time. You might consider switching the case colour, eg. blue for learning, red for games, so the purpose is clearer for younger ones. You can read about additional settings that can be adjusted for cognitive preferences and needs, here.
Creativity. With the touch screen, thousands of creativity apps, and accessories for music, pens and crayons, the iPad can serve to unlock the incredible talents, and enjoyment, of those on the Autism spectrum. You can see Art created on the iPad by artists with Autism, as part of Apple's partnership with Art for Autism. A review of famous people through history who were, or are thought to have been on the Spectrum, shows many well-known names.
Cases and stands. There are a lot of great choices for iPad stands and cases, including shoulder straps, ruggedised, and various materials and handles for both safety, mobility and sensory needs.
Apps. Aside from the well known apps for Autism being available, some apps are good for adults, for example MINT which is a visual way to manage finances, with 20m users, 700k+ favourable reviews, and mentioned in the Autism community.
17. Voice Assistants (Google Nest Hub, Google Mini and Alexa Echo Show and Alexa Echo Dot) For learning, play and daily organization.
People often associate smartphone devices with home security or controlling electrical appliances. But there are a host of things that these devices can do to help individuals on the spectrum manage their day, engage their interests, and even have a little fun along the way.
Ask and learn about anything you like — whether it's a science fact, statistics eg. NRL, or an interest area of focus
Set reminders and timers and alarms to transition through activities more easily throughout the day.
Add to your calendar, ask what’s happening today, set up routines (a collection of instructions)
Listen to music, news, watch videos, reach an audiobook, or get help meditating or falling asleep
Build independence by creating to-do or grocery lists, or making a call should help be needed
Have a good chat! Many smart home devices can tell jokes and ask trivia questions. This will allow you to practice conversational skills in a non-judgmental environment.
There are Alexa specific Autism skills, many free to enable, such as ‘Autism Help’ for language and social skills, Speech Therapy skills designed by health professionals
Play games.
18. Skoog: An accessible music device for everyone
Music is one of the most powerful forms of self-expression and universal enjoyment. It can be particularly useful in expressing emotions, something which can be a challenge for those on the autism spectrum.
The Skoog is a musical device that hopes to make music accessible to everyone of all musical abilities. It can be picked up and used to play songs within the first hour of use, with room for progression as skills develop.
The Skoog has been used by music therapists who work with children with autism to build rapport and emotional connections. It’s a great tool for users to experience trial and error, taking turns, repeating patterns, and creating something they can be proud of.
The Skoog is accessible and can be picked up by anyone, no matter what their musical ability. See their approach and benefits specifically for Autism.
19. Blipblox: Synthesizer for all ages and abilities
The Blipblox is a fully functional synthesizer that's specifically designed for children from as young as 3 — making it easily accessible to a wide range of individuals.
The Blipblox is more than a toy, it is a completely new way for kids (and adults) to explore electronic music. Colorful buttons, knobs and levers encourage creative play, while spacey sounds and flashing lights keep kids engaged in STEM learning. There’s no need to connect a phone and no software to download.
Simply switch it on, start playing with the colorful knobs and buttons, and you'll be on your way to creating electronic music.
It's a great tool for introducing music without the need for learning complex musical theory or motor skills.
Don't be fooled by its cute and colorful design. It's actually a fully functional synthesizer that can be used by more advanced users as they progress.
Be Healthy and Calm
There are also many devices to help those with ASD manage their general health needs and even medical issues often associated with the condition (like seizures).
Here's a summary of our top Autism-support products for staying healthy and calm:
20. Empatica's Embrace: Wristwatch to aid epilepsy detection
Those with ASD are at increased risk of having seizures (around 30% for those with ASD, vs. 2% in the normal population).
Embrace is a special wristwatch designed by Empatica that helps to detect when the wearer has a seizure. It will alert caregivers on the connected smartphone app when an epileptic episode is detected so the affected individual can get help as soon as possible.
It is also suitable for adults or children, is FDA-cleared, and fast charging (30 min charge powers it for a full day) so you or your loved one can be protected for most of the day.
Here is what one thankful mother has to say about the Embrace: "I walked away to make lunch and the Embrace texted and called both my husband and me to let us know our daughter was having a seizure. Now I won't have to worry about missing a seizure." — Brittney from empatica.com
21. Nuheara -IQbuds2 Max: Advanced Hearing Buds reducing background noise and overload.
Qbuds² MAX was selected for the prestigious TIME Best Inventions of 2020. selecting 100 products and innovations for the list.
The buds Active Noise Cancellation and Ear IDTM hearable technology gives people of all ages the power to personalize, control, and alter their soundscape and relieve auditory overload. This can have a significant benefit for people with conditions that include Autism, Tinnitus, ASD, and APD.
This can assist with calm, focus, and improved communication and learning.
MEET KAI “After his first day at school with the earbuds, I asked Kai how it went and he said it was great, and it was also bad. He said it was great because he could finally hear the teacher, but bad because now that he could hear the teacher, he had to do what she said.” ~ Mel (Kai’s mom). See more stories here.
22. Apple Watch: Smartwatch for health, fitness and help
If the Apple Watch is appropriate or tolerable from a sensory perspective, there are many beneficial features. From a safety perspective, the ability to call someone, message, locate, detect a fall or call emergency services in parallel with alerting family may be helpful.
From a health perspective, Apple collects and tracks up to 100 health data points, such a heart rate, blood oxygen, breathing, movement, sleep, and ECG. It can be valuable to understand these measures notice trends, detect implications from medication, or share with your doctor. Being a wearable, data can be collected, stored and accessed retrospectively, should you wish to look back to learn.
From a smartwatch platform, the Apple Watch has the ability to install applications for time management, music, reminders, medication, speaking assistance and through to health apps. Check out Tiimo and Proloquo2Go smartwatch apps (both featured above) and others for seizures, Smartwatch Inspyre, My Medic Watch, SeizAlarm, or Espy for Epilepsy.
Be aware there are different straps that may help with sensory preferences, watch face sizes, and with or without cellular. An "SE" model has most of the same features as the higher priced model, but be aware the SE lacks temperature sensing, blood oxygen, and ECG readings, which may be important to have.
23. Touchpoint Calm: Bracelet that detects and disengages stress.
Touchpoints are wearable bracelets that may assist with stress and anxiety, sleep and focus. They are available for children and adults and in various colours.
TouchPoints utilize BLAST technology to shift you or your child from sensory overload to sensory tolerance and have been reported to help cope with Autism.
Developed over the course of a decade by a team of neuropsychologists, these devices work by altering the body's stress response caused by stress. The wearables emit vibrations that disengage your standard stress response which can impact your performance and health.
Touchpoints have mixed reviews, but we've included them as research suggests good reviews relating to the Autism spectrum, and agreed among those who believe in the science of BLAST technology interrupting the stress mechanisms, You can read the research here, and a study with the specific impacts of those with Autism, here.
24. General Health
Once in a while, everyone needs a little help keeping up with their healthy daily habits. And this can be especially true for those with attentional or rigidity issues.
Tracking & Improving Sleep
Between 50% to 80% of children on the autism spectrum may experience one or more sleep problems. These include difficulty falling asleep, night waking, waking too early, and poor sleep quality. Causes of sleep disturbances may include heightened nervous system arousal, chronic discomfort or pain, sensory sensitivities, side effects of medications. (Source)
A major Research project was undertaken in 2019 investigating the prevalence of sleep with autism, suggested that capturing sleep data is one of the best ways to understand it, and the relationship with other factors such as medication and repetitive behaviors, that might lead to improvements.
If you have a new edition of Google Nest Hub Max you can also try 'Sleep Sensing'. For tracking sleep, movement, breathing and heart rate, you might consider the App “Sleep Check”, Withings Sleep mat, and O2 Ring Blood Oxygen Monitor (or kids version).
Motivating & Tracking General Health.
Fitbit (or Fitbit for Kids) can be valuable for general health tracking including heart rate, steps, sleep tracking, and more. You can keep track of all your stats on the smartphone app and stay motivated by looking at your progress.
If you have more interest in finding out what health, home and assistive technology may assist with individual needs relating to Autism, view the online collections for Autism Spectrum, Sleep & Seizures, Family Health. For adults living independently, visit the Safe and Independent at Home-related technology collections.
Things to Consider When Buying Products to support individuals on the Autism Spectrum
Every individual with ASD is unique as symptoms can differ greatly for those on the spectrum. Furthermore, we all come from different age groups or developmental stages and have personal preferences, needs, and desires.
So there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to selecting the best Autism-support aids.
To help you guide your decision-making, always consult your support team. Here are some additional factors to consider:
What are the specific needs that you'd like assistance with? The severity and range of symptoms you're experiencing may be different from the next person. For example, a person with auditory sensory needs will be quite different from someone with tactile sensitivities.
Do its functions serve the needs you're looking for? Ask yourself what you hope to be able to achieve with the help of the device. For example, does it need to be portable?
Are there additional costs to the device? Some devices may come with an app subscription which may factor into the long-term cost of using it.
Setup and long-term use logistics. Consider if you will be able to use this device independently, and for how long it will meet your needs. If not, will you be able to enlist the help of a caregiver, educator, or friend to assist you?
See how we decide, here.
About Autism. For more information about Autism, including a range of Fact sheets and helpful information. visit here. Always consult a specialist and take their advice. The information provided here is not a personal recommendation as individual needs vary.
About helloEd. helloEd is the world’s largest independent and curated collection of consumer health, home, and assistive technology. It’s free to use. Our team is made up of professionals in medicine, health, psychology and technology. Our smart algorithm continuously scans hundreds of mainstream, niche, and emerging providers and sources to help you discover what’s possible in one location, and assess quality factors. We believe It’s time the world thought differently about what we’re all capable of at any age or health condition. We don't share your data or offer products of our own. See About Us, and What We Do.