Science, Technology, and Social Media

Helping Autism

Originally airing in October, 2011 Sixty Minutes replayed a special on Autism this week as part of their follow up on Apple and Steve Jobs.

As a parent of a young adult, who is non-verbal with autism I am always on the lookout for new and better ways to communicate and converse. As can be seen in the report, not all children respond the same using an iPad to interact and learn. But for those who find computers something with which they can engage these new technologies can be life changing. We have seen first-hand how fascinated our son was with the iPad and how quickly he figured out the programs. Like many autistic people he seems to understand computers without any explanation. The touch screen allows him to easily maneuver without great typing (fine motor) skills.

For the transcript of Apps for Autism click here.

For many families cost of the iPad is still an issue. iPads are still around $500 and the Proloquo2go app (as seen in the video) is $189, though some schools will loan them to families. But for the child who now has fewer temper tantrums due to better communication or who can engage in society without an interpreter, the iPad cost is small compared to its benefits.

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Teresa Wendt

A stay at home mom who runs a household, manages the finances, cares for a young adult autistic son, and cooks from scratch. Traveling from Arizona to Alaska summer of 2013. Visit my blog at https://ramblinroseaz.wordpress.com/ and follow along.

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2 Comments

  1. It would be a great idea to have physicians work with Apple to come to terms if the doctor wrote a prescription for an ipad and presented it to apple the individual would get a reduced price. Of course there would have to be documented information about the diagnosis. Maybe I’m thinking in a fantasy world, but this would benefit so many children and others with the diagnosis.

  2. Nurse up for bail reduction hearing and further proceedings regarding RN license in case of being caught on camera allegedly abusing autistic patient in his care. https://www.rr.com/video/2282664064

    08:30AM CN310345-01 BAIL REVIEW CA vs GARRITSON, MICHAEL DALE
    08:30AM CN310345-01 FURTHER PROCEEDINGS CA vs GARRITSON, MICHAEL DALE
    Dept. 6: Judge: KIMBERLEE A. LAGOTTA
    325 S. Melrose, Vista, California-92081,
    North County Division
    Date: Criminal Calendar for Tuesday, October 09, 2012

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