Investigating Levels of Physical Activity in Adults with Autism and Intellectual Disability
Adults on the spectrum with co-occurring intellectual disability have an increased risk for developing obesity, hypertension and diabetes compared to neurotypical adults. Lack of physical activity has been linked to developing these adverse health conditions. Additionally, physical inactivity is recognized as a severe public health problem and the fourth leading cause of death worldwide.
Does Fidgeting Drive You Crazy?
You are Not Alone, 33% of the Population Has Sensitivities to Fidgeting Fidgeting is a common feature of autism. It is sometimes referred to as “stimming”. Approximately 80% of children with autism have some type of movement disorder. Fidgeting or stimming are sensation-seeking behaviors that can ease feelings of anxiety, frustration, or boredom. Examples of […]
Infant Gut Microbiome May Contribute to Fear Response Trajectory
Study Examines Microbiome Content for 1-Month and 1-Year Old Infants The microbiome is the collection of trillions of microorganisms that colonize the digestive tract. Each person has a completely unique microbiome, made up of a network of microbiota originally determined by their DNA. The microbiome develops rapidly during the first year of life. Previous research […]
Videoconferencing Opens Up a New World to an Adult with Autism
Ph.D. Science Student Becomes Closer to Colleagues Via Zoom During the Pandemic Anya Lawrence is a Ph.D. student who lives in Great Britain. She is also an adult with autism. Anya recently wrote an insightful article that describes how virtual meetings, necessitated during the pandemic, introduced her into a less stressful work and social environment. […]
Strengths and Weaknesses of Digital Health Technologies
Hi-Tech Augmentation Better Suited for Autism Treatment Providers vs. Individuals The past decade has given rise to many new digital health technologies which have been developed to support people with autism. Software for intervention delivery, augmentative and alternative devices and robots to improve social interaction are just some of the technologies that are now readily […]
New National Autism Indicators Report Focuses on Mental Health and Autism
High Rates of Co-occurring Mental Conditions Found Among Children and Adults with ASD Drexel University’s Life Course Outcomes Research Program, part of the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, has just released its annual National Autism Indicators Report. The goal of this report series is to present the program’s findings in “an open-access, online format to speed […]
