Fostering inclusion in clinical and research procedures in autistic youth through augmentative and alternative communication: a narrative review and a proposal for visual aids application in brain stimulation - Report - MDSpire

Fostering inclusion in clinical and research procedures in autistic youth through augmentative and alternative communication: a narrative review and a proposal for visual aids application in brain stimulation

  • By

  • Sara Passarini

  • Fabio Quarin

  • Giulia Lazzaro

  • Floriana Costanzo

  • Andrea Battisti

  • Giovanni Valeri

  • Silvia Guerrera

  • Laura Casula

  • Deny Menghini

  • Sabine Pirchio

  • Stefano Vicari

  • Elisa Fucà

  • July 9, 2026

  • 0 min

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Enhancing Participation of Autistic Youth in Clinical and Research Settings

Overview

This narrative review discusses the role of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) in improving healthcare participation and compliance among autistic youth. It highlights the need for AAC strategies to address communication barriers that hinder effective engagement in medical and research settings.

Background

Autistic individuals often face significant communication challenges that can impede their access to healthcare and participation in research. These barriers can lead to increased stress and anxiety during medical procedures. Addressing these communication difficulties is crucial for ensuring that autistic youth can fully participate in clinical research.

Data Highlights

No specific numerical data or trial results were provided in the source material.

Key Findings

  • Language difficulties in autistic individuals can hinder effective communication in healthcare settings.
  • Communication barriers may reduce treatment compliance and participation in research protocols.
  • AAC strategies can help reduce stress and anxiety.
  • No studies specifically address AAC's role in enhancing compliance during clinical research involving autistic youth.
  • Healthcare environments often lack accommodations for the sensory and communication needs of autistic individuals.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should consider AAC strategies to facilitate communication with autistic youth.

Conclusion

Further research is needed to explore the specific impacts of AAC on compliance in clinical research contexts.

Related Resources & Content

  1. BMC Psychiatry, 2025 -- Evaluating the Impact of AI-Based Interventions on Enhancing Eye Contact in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review
  2. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2026 -- Narrative and visual attention in autism spectrum disorder: a cross-cultural perspective
  3. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2026 -- Multimodal evidence and technology−enabled accommodations for autistic adults: an evidential framework for autism research and practice
  4. American Academy of Pediatrics, 2025 -- Prescribing Assistive Technology: Focus on Children With Complex Communication Needs
  5. ASHA -- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
  6. Frontiers in Psychiatry — Exploring the Efficacy of Low-Frequency Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Sensory and Behavioral Improvements in Pediatric Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Randomized Study
  7. Key Information and Facilitating Understanding in Informed Consent
  8. Prescribing Assistive Technology: Focus on Children With Complex Communication Needs: Clinical Report | Pediatrics | American Academy of Pediatrics
  9. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
  10. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2024-05-06/pdf/2024-08711.pdf
  11. Low intensity transcranial electric stimulation: Safety, ethical, legal regulatory and application guidelines (2017–2025: An update) – endorsed by the European Society for Brain Stimulation (ESBS) and by the International Federation for Clinical Neurophysiology (IFCN) - PMC
  12. Report Approval for Transcranial Electrical Stimulation (RATES): expert recommendation based on a Delphi consensus study | Nature Protocols
  13. Neurodevelopmental considerations for transcranial magnetic stimulation trials in youth | Neuropsychopharmacology
  14. Therapeutic potential of low-frequency transcranial magnetic stimulation in children with autism spectrum disorder: sensory and behavioral outcomes—a randomized trial
  15. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation of the Temporoparietal Junction in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Results of a Phase‐IIa Randomized, Double‐Blind, Sham‐Controlled Feasibility Study - PMC
  16. Efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis - PubMed
  17. HD-tDCS effects on social impairment in autism spectrum disorder with sensory processing abnormalities: a randomized controlled trial | Scientific Reports

Original Source(s)

Fostering inclusion in clinical and research procedures in autistic youth through augmentative and alternative communication: a narrative review and a proposal for visual aids application in brain stimulation

  • by Sara Passarini, Fabio Quarin, Giulia Lazzaro, Floriana Costanzo, Andrea Battisti, Giovanni Valeri, Silvia Guerrera, Laura Casula, Deny Menghini, Sabine Pirchio, Stefano Vicari, Elisa Fucà

  • July 9, 2026

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