INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (April 11, 2014) Its a diagnosis more and more parents are hearing: autism. During Autism Awareness Month, therapists are highlighting new technology and how treatments have changed since autism was first discovered.
Mother Beth Brown and her son Kyle began their journey to find the right treatment nearly 20 years ago.
At the age of two he did not develop language and so we had him tested, said Brown.
Since then Kyle has had nearly every kind of therapy available. As he got older, some of his behaviors became more aggressive and destructive. Thats when his family found Damar Services where Kyle now lives and goes to school.
Within the last year, he has begun using iPad technology to communicate.
The thing I like most about the iPad is theres voice and sound, so theres voice with I want chips please or I want to see my mom, said Brown.
Kyles destructive behaviors are better. He can work with staff to make choices even without his own words and take videos to show new caregivers his routine. The iPad has replaced Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) for many people with autism who arent able to speak on their own.
But experts say new technology is only helpful when implemented in a strategic way.
We want to make sure parents dont just grab onto an app on an iPad and begin using that with their children, said Damar President and CEO Dr. Jim Dalton.
What we really recommend is a good assessment from a professional that helps parents match the needs of their children with the technology thats available, he said.
Originally posted here:
Changing treatments, technology for autism helping young adults