Technology to support autistic adults

Assistive technology (AT) is key in supporting many people with autism, improving their ability to communicate, perform daily tasks and build independence.

Understanding AT and how best to use it can empower autistic people and their loved ones. It can improve your or your loved one’s quality of life, level of independence, community participation and relationships with others.

What is assistive technology?

Assistive technology includes many tools, devices, and software designed to support individuals with disabilities, including autism. These technologies can assist with communication, learning, daily living activities, and sensory regulation. For some, AT can improve their existing skills; for others, it provides them with new skills and abilities they wouldn’t have otherwise (e.g., communication). 

Assistive technology for autism can be broadly classified into three categories based on the complexity of the technology involved and the task it assists with:

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

AAC is a specific category of assistive technology that includes methods, devices, and systems to supplement or replace speech. It can help people with autism across all age groups by improving the ability to communicate, socialise and live independently. There are various forms of AAC, ranging from simple picture boards to sophisticated speech-generating devices and apps.

Benefits of assistive technology for autistic adults

Communication

For nonverbal individuals or those who may struggle to communicate verbally at times, AT provides accessible tools for communication, improving safety, independence, and connections with others. A variety of apps and devices allow users to communicate via symbols, photos, voice output, or text-to-speech technology. Other apps and devices can convert spoken words into text, helping those who struggle with typing or writing. 

Mood, behaviour and emotional regulation

AT can support autistic people in managing and improving their mood, behaviour, and emotional regulation skills. Some apps and devices can track moods and behaviours of concern, helping users and their families identify patterns or triggers for poor mood or challenging behaviours that can then be addressed.

Other devices can assist autistic individuals with navigating big emotions. For example, mindfulness apps can include guided meditation, breathing exercises, relaxation techniques or distractions to help manage anxiety or prevent meltdowns. Apps and devices that communicate transitions (e.g., Time Timer) can also be helpful for emotional regulation, as they prepare autistic people for the transition in a clear and positive way. 

Daily living skills

Apps and devices that allow users to create and refer to visual schedules are very helpful for autistic people developing and maintaining life skills. Schedules that can be customised to reflect the user’s abilities, needs, and interests are especially beneficial. For example, using images alongside text might make a daily schedule easier to understand. 

Many of these apps and devices can send prompts and reminders to users to help them remember tasks and activities in their daily routines. Many also offer checklists, which can help users stay organised and on task when completing errands or activities with several steps. Having these resources to refer to can help create a predictable daily routine and reduce anxiety around being unsure of how to complete a task. 

Learning

Apps and devices such as e-readers are very helpful for autistic people, who are more likely to experience reading challenges, such as dyslexia. High-quality AT in this area will have customisable text and the option to highlight or save segments of text to make reading and reading comprehension easier. Interactive games can also help autistic people to learn by making lessons more engaging and motivating.

Note-taking apps can also benefit autistic people, particularly when they have features such as highlighting and audio recording. These features can help users revisit or record information from a lesson later and can support both handwritten and typed notes. These features help autistic people learn in their own style and at their own pace.

Sensory sensitivities

Some forms of AT offer visual and auditory stimulation, which can be relaxing and assist with sensory regulation. This can also help people with sensory-seeking behaviours explore these safely. 

Accessibility

Preparation is key for many autistic individuals, especially when visiting new places. Providing maps on websites can significantly reduce anxiety by helping individuals familiarise themselves with the layout of shops, stores, museums, and other venues. Sensory maps, which highlight particularly bright or noisy areas, can be incredibly helpful. Offering alternative routes, such as ‘quiet trails’ through a venue, can make visits more comfortable and enjoyable.

Features like assistive touch can also help autistic people use digital devices more easily, as they simplify the navigation menu. 

Personalising your AT

When selecting apps or assistive technologies, it is crucial to consider the individual’s unique needs and preferences. Some apps are platform-specific and available only on iOS or Android, while others may be compatible with both. Always check the app’s features, reviews, and compatibility with the user’s device before choosing. Personalisation ensures that the chosen technology effectively meets the user's requirements and enhances their daily life.

Supporting an autistic person to use AT

If you are the carer of an autistic person who requires support when learning to use AT, encouraging them to use it independently is the ultimate goal. Here are some strategies that can support you when working with AT for different purposes:

AT for communication

When selecting an app for communication, particularly if the user has never used AT before, consider the following features:

• Picture availability: Choose an app with a comprehensive library of pictures or one that allows you to upload your own photographs. This visual support is crucial for language development.
• Speech function: The app should vocalise the word when the picture is touched, reinforcing the association between the image and the word.
• Customisation: Look for the ability to control how many pictures are displayed at a time and create a personalised categorisation system for different pictures to tailor the device to the user’s needs and preferences.

Spend plenty of time with the user demonstrating how the device works and modelling how to use it correctly. 

Ensure the device is always available for communication. It’s vital not to take away what might be their only voice. 

AT for daily living activities

Assistive technology devices can also aid in daily routines and activities, promoting independence and structure for autistic individuals. Different scheduling and visual support apps can cater to various activities. The best app for the user will depend on their strengths, routine, support needs and preferences. Here are some helpful suggestions for autistic individuals:

• Scheduling: Use the device to keep a schedule with reminders for upcoming activities that an autistic person can refer to as many times as they need to.
• Step-by-step guidance: Create visual guides with simple step-by-step instructions for complex activities, like brushing teeth or getting dressed. These instructions should combine images with simple sentences.

Working with professionals

Several professionals can support autistic adults in using AT. For example, speech pathologists can help expand the use of an AT device into conversations. If you or an autistic adult you know is already receiving professional support, speak to therapist/s about how they can provide support.