Caregiver Perspectives on AI-Assisted Devices for Autism Support

Overview

This report explores caregiver insights on the use of AI-assisted devices to support daily living in families with children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It highlights the challenges faced by caregivers, the potential benefits of AI technologies, and the importance of co-developing these tools with the community to enhance adaptive functioning and wellbeing.

Background

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social communication deficits and repetitive behaviors, affecting approximately 1 in 100 children worldwide. Families of children with ASD often face significant challenges in managing daily functioning tasks, compounded by limited access to specialized services and caregiver stress. Adaptive functioning is critical for independent living, and digital support strategies, including AI-assisted technologies, are emerging as promising tools to assist both children and their caregivers. National disability agencies, such as Australia's NDIA, recognize AI devices as potential supports within frameworks aimed at improving functioning across multiple domains.

Data Highlights

Approximately 84% of support for functioning activities is provided by informal carers such as parents and family members. The NDIA cost the Australian Government nearly $30 billion in 2023. Studies indicate small sample sizes in AI technology research for neurodevelopmental conditions, with limited caregiver feedback incorporated. The NDIS framework includes six core domains: mobility, communication, social interaction, self-management, learning, and self-care.

Key Findings

• Caregivers of children with ASD face barriers including long waitlists for specialized services and challenges managing social, communication, and self-care needs.
• Caregiver burden and stress are common and negatively impact family quality of life.
• AI-assisted technologies offer personalized, real-time support that may improve adaptive functioning and wellbeing.
• Previous AI interventions (e.g., social robots, virtual reality, wearable devices) show promise but often lack caregiver input and involve small samples.
• Co-development of AI tools with the autism community is essential to ensure devices are fit for purpose and beneficial.
• National disability frameworks are increasingly incorporating AI to enhance accessibility and support for individuals with disabilities.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians and service providers should consider the integration of AI-assisted devices as adjunctive tools to support daily functioning in children with ASD, recognizing the importance of caregiver involvement in device selection and development. Awareness of caregiver challenges and stressors can guide personalized interventions that leverage technology to reduce burden and improve family quality of life. Collaboration between technology developers, clinicians, and families is critical to optimize the effectiveness and acceptance of AI supports.

Conclusion

AI-assisted technologies represent a promising avenue to enhance daily living support for children with ASD and their families. Incorporating caregiver insights and aligning with national disability frameworks will be key to realizing their full potential in improving adaptive functioning and wellbeing.

References

1. NDIA and NDIS Frameworks -- Australian Government
2. Griffen, Lorah et al. -- AI and Daily Living Skills in ASD
3. Bimbrahw, Boger, Mihailidis -- AI Tablet Devices for Independence
4. Systematic Review on AI in Neurodevelopmental Conditions