Functional Status of People with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Introduction: Austism spectrum disorder (ASD) heterogeneity requires these individuals to have functional heterogeneity. Compared to the general population, numerous studies have shown that people with ASD have a lower functional status in performing daily activities and most of them require assistive technology. Methodology: We performed a comparative analysis of the collected data from 72 subjects with ASD and 75 neurotypical controls aged 3-24 years using the Rochester Health Status Survey IV (RHSS-IV) by conducting a structured individual interview to provide a comparative item for functional status and use of assistive technology in Macedonia. Results: Children with ASD have a lower functional status in performing daily activities required for eating, dressing, showering and using the toilet (p = 0.000), as well as acquiring academic knowledge and skills (p = 0.000). Children with ASD use more assistive technology (p = 0.032) as opposed to neurotypical children and the most commonly used are alternative and aumentative devices (p = 0.002). Conclusions: Most children with ASD have a lower functional status in performing the daily activities required for eating, dressing, showering and using the toilet, as well as acquiring academic knowledge and skills unlike their peers with neurotypical development. Also, children with ASD use alternative and augmentative devices, which is not the case with children in the control group. Accurate quantification is crucial for the progress and positive outcome of children with ASD.