Experts call for lifelong, coordinated care for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Early intervention and continued therapies can significantly improve outcomes for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These include better socialisation, communication, and cognitive abilities, as well as reduced challenging behaviours. However, experts at a national conclave on Thursday stressed that ASD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition, and support must evolve with the individual's changing needs.

The conclave on 'Life-course approach to ASD' was organised by the Child Development Centre at Government Medical College. The two-day event brings together clinicians, researchers, educators, therapists, policymakers, programme managers, and representatives from governmental and non-governmental sectors across the country. The aim is to explore strategies for implementing a coordinated, person-centred approach that spans the entire lifespan.

Experts pointed out that the needs, strengths, challenges, and aspirations of individuals with ASD change over time. This necessitates a comprehensive life-course approach that ensures continuous and coordinated support from childhood into adulthood and beyond. Optimal outcomes are achieved through timely identification, early intervention, inclusive education, mental health care, social participation, and healthy ageing, they noted.

They emphasised that ASD is not limited to childhood. Many adults with ASD require ongoing support for employment, independent living, and social relationships. Therefore, services must be planned with a lifelong perspective, integrating health, education, and social sectors.

Doctors also highlighted that about 90% of children with ASD have at least one or two co-occurring medical or psychiatric conditions. Detecting and managing these conditions early is crucial. The pattern of comorbidities is not static; it changes as children grow into adults. Puberty can also affect children and adolescents, as they become more aware of social differences and peer comparisons, which may trigger anxiety and depression. These require careful and ongoing management.

The role of families, caregivers, and the community in creating an enabling and empowering environment is critical, experts said. Such support can help individuals with ASD achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.

While awareness about ASD has increased and advanced diagnostics and therapeutic practices are now available, experts highlighted significant gaps in ensuring continuity of care. They called for bridging these gaps to provide seamless services across healthcare, education, and social systems, particularly during the transition from childhood to adult care.

Among the experts who spoke were M.K.C. Nair, founder-director of the Child Development Centre; Paul Russell, senior professor in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at CMC Vellore; Lal D.V., secretary of the Indian Academy of Paediatrics chapter of Neurodevelopmental Paediatrics; and Valsamma Eapen, professor and chair of Infant, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at UNSW Sydney.