Occupational Therapy

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This study looked at 21 children with autism aged 3-6 to see if their movement skills connect to their ability to understand language. Researchers found that children with better movement skills (especially large movements like running and jumping) also had better language understanding. The connection was very strong across all types of movement skills tested, suggesting that physical development and language understanding may be linked in children with autism.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This review looked at how health professionals help autistic teenagers and teens with disabilities through puberty. Researchers found that these young people face extra challenges during puberty and need more support. Parents often feel worried and burdened. There's not enough research specifically about occupational therapy's role, but the findings show there's a big opportunity for occupational therapists to help families better understand and navigate puberty changes.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study looked at movement skills in 292 Brazilian children aged 3-10, comparing kids with autism to those without. Children with autism had more difficulty with all types of movement skills - like using their hands, balancing, and understanding their body in space. These movement challenges were present in younger children with autism and seemed to get worse as they got older. The research shows that movement problems are often early signs of autism that parents and doctors should watch for.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers studied whether certain genes might explain why children with autism experience sensory differences (like being over- or under-sensitive to sounds, textures, or sights). They compared 45 children with autism to 45 children without autism and found that while the autism group had more sensory challenges overall, specific gene variations might influence particular sensory issues within the autism group. The study was small and preliminary, so more research is needed.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This review looks at how movement skills (like running, using hands, and mouth movements) relate to speech and language development in children with autism and language disorders. While we know these movement skills affect language development, researchers usually study them separately. The authors suggest combining all types of movement research could help us better predict which children might have language difficulties.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study looked at how COVID-19 affected parents of autistic children compared to other parents. Researchers found that parents of autistic children struggled more during the pandemic, especially with work, social activities, looking after themselves, and having time for hobbies or relaxation. The study included over 500 families and used surveys and interviews to understand their experiences.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers developed a computer program that can predict fine motor difficulties (like handwriting or using utensils) in teenagers with autism. The program uses brain activity measurements and movement tests to make predictions with 95% accuracy. This could help identify children who need support earlier, as most children with autism have motor difficulties but many don't get the help they need.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers looked at whether occupational therapy goals for autistic children focus enough on participation in daily activities. They asked 40 occupational therapists about their most common goals and found that only about one-third of goals actually addressed participation. While international classification systems can help organize these goals, they may not cover everything occupational therapists work on with autistic children, especially around hand skills and self-care.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study looked at learning difficulties and mental health in over 2,000 children with Turner syndrome compared to typical children. Children with Turner syndrome were twice as likely to have learning challenges, especially with speech, movement, and attention. However, they didn't have higher rates of anxiety or depression than other children, which surprised researchers who wonder if these issues might be missed or appear differently in Turner syndrome.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study looked at how sensory differences affect behavior in 127 children with autism. Researchers found that children who seek lots of movement and touch experiences have more tantrums, while children who seek visual stimulation adapt better to changes. Children sensitive to sounds also had more behavioral challenges. The study identified different sensory patterns that could help predict which children might need extra behavioral support.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers tested fine motor skills in 108 adults (52 autistic, 56 non-autistic) aged 30-73 using a grip strength task. Autistic adults had more difficulty with precise hand movements - they were slower to respond, took longer to complete tasks, and had less consistent grip strength. Older autistic adults showed more widespread difficulties than middle-aged ones. The study found that motor problems and repetitive behaviors may share similar brain networks, and that fine motor difficulties continue into older age for autistic people.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers studied movement skills in 175 children with autism, coordination disorders, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities. They found that children's movement abilities grouped into four patterns regardless of their diagnosis. Most conditions showed similar movement patterns, except children with intellectual disabilities who more often had poor movement skills. This suggests focusing on actual movement abilities rather than just diagnosis labels might help better support children.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers used advanced brain scans to study 29 preschool children with autism compared to 25 typical children. They found differences in two key areas: lower iron levels in the front part of the brain and changes in the coating around nerve fibers in movement-related brain regions. These brain differences were linked to motor skill challenges - children with lower iron had more fine motor difficulties, while those with nerve coating changes had more gross motor problems. The brain scan patterns were very accurate at identifying autism.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers tested a Persian version of a play assessment tool with 225 children, including those with autism and ADHD. The tool showed good reliability and could tell the difference between children with different conditions. This means it could be useful for understanding how children with autism or ADHD play differently, which is important for therapy planning.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers used a virtual reality soccer game to study how people with autistic traits make predictions. Participants had to guess where a ball would land after it disappeared mid-flight. People with higher autistic traits were less accurate at predicting where the ball would go and had trouble adjusting their predictions when given feedback. They stuck rigidly to their initial guesses even when they were clearly wrong, while others learned to be more flexible.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study tracked motor skills (movement abilities) in 187 autistic children and teens compared to 136 non-autistic peers aged 6-18. While autistic children consistently showed motor differences, the gap changed differently depending on the skill. Grip strength differences got bigger as children aged, but overall motor scores stayed about the same or got closer together. The tests used may not have been challenging enough for older teens, which could hide some differences.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This small study tested whether occupational therapy using sensory integration techniques could be delivered effectively through video calls at home. Six autistic children with sensory challenges received 10 online therapy sessions. Parents and therapists found the online format helpful and doable. Children improved in their personal goals, daily living skills, and social skills, with fewer autism-related behaviors. This approach could help families who live far from services or can't attend in-person appointments.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This large study of UK children found that those with autistic traits, particularly difficulties with social communication and speech, were more likely to experience bedwetting, daytime accidents, and soiling at age 9. Children with diagnosed autism had over 3 times higher odds of daytime wetting. By age 14, these toileting issues were less common, but constipation remained more frequent in children with autistic traits. The findings suggest early assessment and treatment of toileting difficulties should be considered for children showing autistic traits.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Children with autism often have balance problems that can affect their daily activities and independence. This large review of 34 studies found that children with autism consistently showed poorer balance compared to other children, whether measured through clinical tests or specialized equipment. The differences were significant but varied depending on how balance was tested. More high-quality research is needed to better understand these balance challenges.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study followed over 1000 children in Taiwan for 1.5 years to see how self-care skills develop in children with autism, other developmental conditions, and typical development. Children with autism and other conditions showed lower self-care abilities after age 4 and developed these skills more slowly before age 4. Family factors like number of siblings and parent education affected development. Early self-care skills predicted later independence in home and community activities.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers studied how autistic and non-autistic adults use their hands during LEGO building tasks. Autistic participants used their right hand less often and were less likely to reach across their body. They preferred using blocks closer to them and moved more slowly with less consistent patterns. These differences might help identify autism earlier through objective movement assessments.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This research looked at how well children with autism can balance and control their posture during movement tasks. The study found that children with autism have more difficulty with balance compared to other children. They are less stable, more likely to lose their balance when their body position changes, and need to make extra movements to stay upright and prevent falls. These balance challenges may affect their daily activities and independence.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study looked at how children with autism move and think, comparing those with autism alone to those with autism plus other conditions like intellectual disability or ADHD. Children with both autism and intellectual disability had the most movement difficulties. The research found that thinking skills and movement abilities are connected - children who were better at visual-spatial tasks, understanding language, or remembering information often had better movement skills. This suggests different types of autism may need different support approaches.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study looked at how autistic brains process sensory information differently. Researchers combined data from 145 studies with over 7,000 people. They found that autistic people's brains take slightly longer to respond to sights, sounds, and other sensory input. This delay was especially noticeable in people with language difficulties and in teenagers/adults. These brain timing differences might help explain why autistic people experience sensory and social challenges differently.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Scientists studied touch sensitivity problems in autism using mice with similar genetic changes. They found that autistic mice had trouble detecting gentle touch, just like many autistic people do. The problem comes from brain cells in the touch area not working together properly - they're too 'noisy' and don't send clear signals. When researchers reduced this brain cell activity, the mice's touch sensitivity improved. This helps us understand why some autistic people have trouble with touch and suggests possible ways to help.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers looked at over 2,600 studies about movement difficulties in autistic children published over 10 years. They found that research in this area has gone through different phases - first studying how movement develops, then looking at how movement problems connect to other autism traits, and now focusing on developing treatments. The research shows that movement difficulties are common in autism but often overlooked.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study looked at why some autistic children struggle with cleaning themselves after using the toilet. Researchers surveyed 74 parents and found that sensory issues, motor skills problems, and fear of sitting on the toilet were connected to hygiene difficulties. Parents identified problems with toilet paper, reaching properly, health issues, and shared strategies that worked for their children. More research is needed to help therapists better support families with this important daily skill.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study looked at how sensory challenges affect daily activities like eating, getting dressed, and using the toilet in autistic children. Parents reported that their children's over- or under-sensitivity to touch, sound, and other senses made these everyday tasks much harder. Children also struggled with planning and carrying out movements needed for daily activities, making them more dependent on their parents for help.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers worked with 25 community members—including Hispanic and Latino parents, autistic adults, therapists, and cultural experts—to help design autism research that better serves their communities. The participants rated their involvement very positively and helped improve how families are recruited for studies and how information is shared. This shows that including community voices in research planning can make autism services more relevant and accessible for families from different cultural backgrounds.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers studied how well autistic young adults can plan and organize daily tasks compared to non-autistic peers. They found that autistic adults had more difficulty with planning activities, following rules, and staying organized. However, autistic adults who used more planning strategies performed better on the tasks. This suggests that teaching specific planning strategies could help autistic adults manage daily life activities more successfully.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study looked at movement skills in 26 children with autism compared to children without autism. Children with autism had difficulties with both large movements (like jumping and walking) and fine movements (like catching balls). They also had looser joints, weaker grip, and less endurance. Importantly, children with more severe autism symptoms had worse catching and throwing skills, and these skills were also related to intelligence levels.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study looked at three autistic people who have difficulty speaking. It suggests that problems with muscle control (apraxia) might be the main reason they can't speak well, not because they can't think clearly. The research shows that these individuals are intelligent but need different ways to communicate. The study calls for better support systems that don't judge intelligence based on speech alone.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers studied 423 children to see how language and movement skills in early years affected thinking abilities later on. Children who improved their understanding of language, speaking, and movement skills had better thinking test scores. This was true even for children with autism or ADHD. The study shows that helping children develop these skills early can lead to better outcomes later.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers tested a mindfulness program for 20 parents of autistic children, combined with regular occupational therapy. Parents learned mindfulness skills while helping their children with daily activities like dressing and washing. Most parents (87.5%) found the program acceptable and helpful. Parents in the mindfulness group felt more satisfied helping their children with daily tasks and reported less stress. The benefits lasted for two months after the program ended.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study looked at art group activities for children with learning differences like autism and ADHD. The researchers found that art groups can help reduce challenging behaviors and improve social skills, self-expression, wellbeing, and the bond between children and their caregivers. The study created guidelines called 'The ART Principles' to help therapists run art groups more effectively.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study tested AquOTic, a 10-week water therapy program for autistic children aged 5-9. The program combines swimming lessons with occupational therapy techniques in small groups. After the program, both parents and therapists saw big improvements in children's water safety skills and swimming abilities. Parents felt much more satisfied with their child's progress. The program mainly helped with movement skills, water safety awareness, and how children handle different sensations in water.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers propose a new way for occupational therapists to work with autistic children and families. The approach focuses on building strong, caring relationships that respect the child's strengths and the family's goals. Instead of trying to 'fix' autism, this method celebrates neurodiversity and works collaboratively with families to support the child's development in ways that feel right for them.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study looked at how LGBTQIA+ autistic adults learn about their identities. Researchers talked to 164 people and found that having access to diverse role models, supportive resources, and accepting people helped with positive identity development. When people had good support, they felt relief and pride. Without support, they struggled more with self-acceptance. The study suggests ways therapists can help, like connecting people with similar peers and providing safe spaces to explore identity.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers used brain scans to study how different brain regions communicate in young children with autism (ages 3-6) compared to typically developing children. They found that autistic children's brains showed two main differences: some brain networks were less connected than usual, while others were more rigidly connected. Importantly, children with stronger connections in certain brain areas had more repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. This research helps us understand how brain differences in autism may relate to the behaviors and challenges we observe.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This review explains how autism diagnosis changed in 2013, leading to many more people being identified as autistic, especially adults with high-functioning autism. These individuals often have good language skills and intelligence but struggle with jobs and relationships. They may have learned to 'mask' their autism traits. While there's no cure, treating other health conditions and providing job training, therapy, and social skills support can help improve their quality of life.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This research looked at how thinking skills, sensory processing, and movement abilities are connected in children with autism. The study found that when children have difficulties with sensory processing and movement, these problems can lead to greater challenges with thinking skills like planning and problem-solving. Motor skills were particularly important - children with better movement abilities tended to have better thinking skills. This suggests that therapy programs that work on both sensory and movement skills together might help improve children's overall thinking and daily functioning abilities.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study looked at bone fractures in 126 adults with intellectual disability and/or autism. It found that people with autism alone had more high-energy fractures (50%) compared to those with intellectual disability alone (24%). The most common cause of fractures was falls and accidents during transfers. Leg fractures were most common in people with intellectual disability, while arm fractures were more common in people with autism only. The findings suggest different prevention strategies may be needed for different groups.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study looked at different types of movement exercises for autistic children aged 6-12. Sixty children tried either fine motor activities (like using fingers), gross motor activities (like running), both types together, or no special exercises. The children who did both types of exercises together showed the biggest improvements in their movement skills, and these improvements lasted even two months later. This suggests that exercise programs combining both small and large movement activities work best for helping autistic children develop better motor skills.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This paper looks at how occupational therapists can help autistic people learn everyday skills like cooking, cleaning, and showering without trying to change who they are. These daily skills are important for living independently and having a good quality of life. The authors suggest that therapists should focus on helping autistic people in ways that respect their differences rather than trying to make them act like non-autistic people.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study looked at how sensitivity to clothing textures affects 86 autistic adults. Those with higher sensitivity were more likely to feel unhappy with their appearance and have lower self-esteem. Clothing sensitivity can make people feel uncomfortable physically and emotionally, and limit their participation in social events. Many autistic adults find ways to cope, like buying multiple items of comfortable clothes or carefully checking clothes before buying. Having access to comfortable, sensory-friendly clothing is important for autistic adults' wellbeing and self-expression.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study followed 356 children (234 autistic) over several years, using brain scans and motor skill tests. Researchers found that brain areas involved in movement work differently in autistic boys versus girls. The brain structure at age 3 could predict which autistic girls would improve their fine motor skills over time, but this wasn't true for autistic boys. This suggests that motor difficulties in autism may have different underlying causes depending on the child's sex, which could be important for developing targeted therapies.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This research looked at brain scans of autistic adults while they performed actions or watched others perform actions. The study found that autistic adults use the same brain areas as non-autistic adults, but these areas work differently - sometimes more active, sometimes less active. These differences in brain activity may help explain why some autistic people have motor difficulties and challenges understanding what others are doing or intending to do.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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This study looked at 193 parents and caregivers of autistic children in China to understand what helps them stay strong and resilient. The research found that having good social support helps caregivers feel more hopeful and grateful, which in turn makes them more resilient. Having hope was especially important - it explained about a quarter of how social support leads to resilience. The findings suggest that building social connections and fostering hope could be important ways to support caregiver wellbeing.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers studied 285 pairs of 5-month-old twins in Sweden to understand how babies process sensory information differently. They found that babies have four main ways of responding to sensory input, each influenced by different genetic and environmental factors. When these children were reassessed at 3 years old, those who had more tactile-seeking behaviors and certain sensory sensitivities as babies showed more autism-related traits as toddlers.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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Researchers worked with Black American families, cultural experts, and therapists to make occupational therapy services more culturally appropriate for Black autistic children. They found barriers families face and ways to improve services, including having therapists better understand and respect cultural differences and involving families more in treatment decisions.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.