Challenges and Assistive Technology during Typical Routines: Perspectives of Caregivers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Other Disabilities

ABSTRACT

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities can face challenges during typical daily routines. Assistive technology can be used to address the problems encountered during typical routines, yet the competence of caregivers of children with these disabilities in using assistive technology varies. This study was designed to explore Saudi Arabian caregivers’ perceptions about problematic typical daily routines. Caregivers of children with these disabilities were surveyed about the problems they encountered with typical routines, the solutions they found to the problems, the assistive technology they used in the solutions, and their training in and feelings of competence about using assistive technology. Caregivers experienced problems in playing, bathing, and mealtime routines and some found solutions using assistive technology. Over one-third of the caregivers did not feel at all competent in using assistive technology. Suggestions for future research as well as training and development for caregivers are provided.

KEYWORDS:

• Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
• developmental disabilities
• assistive technology
• early childhood

Acknowledgments

There was no research funding for this study, and no restrictions have been imposed on free access to, or publication of, the research data.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.