October 23, 2023
- A new research article has explored the differences in symptom profiles of sensory over-responsivity (SOR) and anxiety among young people (aged 8-18 years) with autism or anxiety disorder. This research aimed to discover the unique associations with neurobiological responses to sensory stimulation in both disorders. The authors suggest that even though anxiety and SOR frequently co-occur, the two conditions exhibit unique relationships with biological responses to sensory stimulation, indicating that they have different biological signatures. For instance, hyperactive brain responses to unpleasant sensory stimulation were more strongly linked to SOR symptoms in the participants with autism and anxiety symptoms in participants with anxiety disorder. The authors believe that their study highlights the need for targeted interventions that address these symptoms differently based on diagnosis. They also indicate that further research is necessary to explore potential sex differences and the impact of age on SOR and anxiety symptoms across different populations.
- While the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests autism screening for children at their 18- and 24-month well-child visit, a recent investigation reveals that for nearly 80% of children who screened positive for autism, caregivers or providers had a previous developmental concern as documented in electronic health records. This research showed that, on average, children with a positive Modified-Checklist for Autism in Toddlers had two concerns documented by 1 year of age and three by 2 years of age. The authors indicate that these concerns imply that screening for autism is often carried out as part of larger conversations regarding existing developmental concerns, making it less stigmatizing and offering a chance for caregivers to air their observations. They also say that understanding this context can help guide providers in how to appropriately convey feedback regarding autism screening.
- The Autism Housing Network is a project of Madison House Autism Foundation. The organization’s mission is “to promote, model, and advocate for the full inclusion of adults with autism and their families in the life of our communities; and to expand choice and opportunity in housing, employment, and social participation.” Make sure to visit their new blog, which helps adults on the spectrum find appropriate housing.
- The Social Security Administration has announced that people with disabilities receiving Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits will see a 3.2% increase in their monthly payments next year. The increase is due to an automatic cost-of-living adjustment based on the Consumer Price Index from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. The maximum federal SSI payment for individuals will reach $943 per month next year, up from $914 currently, while the maximum for couples will be $1,415, up from $1,371. The new amounts will take effect for about 7.5 million SSI beneficiaries nationwide starting Dec. 29, while higher payments will begin for those receiving Social Security in January.
