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 - Scorecard - 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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Clinical Scorecard: Enhancing Participation of Autistic Youth in Clinical and Research Settings through Augmentative and Alternative Communication: A Narrative Review and Proposal for Visual Aid Utilization in Brain Stimulation

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionAutism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Key MechanismsAugmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) strategies to improve communication and reduce anxiety.
Target PopulationAutistic children and adolescents.
Care SettingHealthcare and clinical research environments.

Key Highlights

  • AAC aids can enhance compliance in healthcare settings for autistic youth.
  • Communication barriers significantly hinder access to healthcare and research participation.
  • Autistic individuals often face heightened sensory stimuli in medical environments.
  • Clear preparatory information can help autistic children cope with medical procedures.
  • 90% of children with neurodevelopmental conditions are excluded from research procedures.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Regular healthcare monitoring for medical co-occurrences in autistic individuals.

Management

  • Utilize AAC strategies to facilitate communication and reduce anxiety during healthcare interactions.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Implement multidisciplinary approaches for regular checkups.

Risks

  • Increased emergency visits and hospitalization rates due to communication barriers.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Autistic children and adolescents with communication difficulties.

AAC tools can improve understanding and compliance with healthcare protocols.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Adapt healthcare environments to minimize sensory load.
  • Incorporate alternative communication strategies alongside traditional methods.
  • Provide age-appropriate preparatory information to reduce medical fears.

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