Clinical Scorecard: AI-Assisted Devices for Daily Living Support in Families with Children Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder

At a Glance

Key Highlights

• ASD is characterised by social communication deficits and repetitive behaviours, with increasing prevalence worldwide.
• Caregivers face significant challenges managing daily functioning needs, often compounded by limited access to specialised services and high caregiver burden.
• AI-assistive technologies show promise in supporting adaptive functioning and independence but require co-development with caregivers for optimal benefit.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

• Assess adaptive functioning across core domains including mobility, communication, social interaction, self-management, learning, and self-care.

Management

• Incorporate AI-assistive devices such as apps, tablets, and interactive software to support daily living skills and participation.
• Engage caregivers in co-development and feedback processes to ensure assistive technologies meet family needs.

Monitoring & Follow-up

• Use AI tools to facilitate ongoing monitoring of functioning and wellbeing to tailor support and streamline service delivery.

Risks

• Be cautious interpreting early AI technology studies due to small sample sizes and limited caregiver input.
• Address potential barriers including caregiver stress, social stigma, and financial burden when implementing AI supports.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Children with ASD requiring support in adaptive functioning and their families

AI-assistive technologies may enhance independence in daily living activities and reduce caregiver burden when integrated within existing disability support frameworks.

Clinical Best Practices

• Prioritise personalised, adaptive AI interventions co-designed with caregivers to address diverse ASD presentations.
• Integrate AI supports within national disability schemes such as the NDIS to improve access and funding alignment.
• Consider holistic family needs including social, communication, and self-care challenges when implementing AI tools.

References

• Autism Spectrum Disorder Overview
• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Australia
• Systematic Review on AI Technologies in Neurodevelopmental Conditions