Find introductory information and resources about issues that span across the lives of people with autism and other developmental disabilities.

Accessibility for Individuals with Autism

Everyone should have the chance to live their lives to their fullest, including individuals with disabilities. Yet some face accessibility challenges in their jobs, schools and within their communities. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other disabilities have rights under a number of federal acts.

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Aging Issues

Over the past several decades, medical and social advances have led to dramatic increases in life expectancy of individuals with developmental disabilities. While disparities remain, the average lifespan for the majority of individuals with developmental disabilities is comparable to that of the general population. Very little research has explored the aging experiences of older adults with autism spectrum disorders and their families.

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Early Intervention

Early intervention (EI) refers to services provided to infants, toddlers, and pre-school aged children with disabilities. Services provided in early intervention may include educational, developmental, behavioral, communication, occupational, physical therapies, assistive technology, and other related services.

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Special Needs Planning

Individuals with disabilities, including those living with autism spectrum disorder, need guidance and support to integrate into their communities, as well as to be successful in schools and beyond. There are many types of programs out there including support groups, counseling and educational groups to help them adapt to their surroundings.

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Support Programs

After a person has been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, a next step may be to find services that can support the person as they live, work, and interact in the community. Services can be provided through a wide array of local, state, and federal programs as well as through various private professionals and organizations that work in various fields, including medicine, education, and therapy. Services may vary depending on the age of the person with an autism spectrum disorder and their particular strengths and needs as well as on the ability or wishes of families of people with autism spectrum disorders to provide support within the family.

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What is Assistive Technology (AT)?

Learn about assistive technology, how it can help people with autism, where to find out more about it and how to integrate it into your life.

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