When we think of the self-advocacy movement, we think of people with disabilities being in control of their lives, making decisions, and directing their life story. However, many self-advocates say that they don’t get the same support regarding sexuality and relationships as they do when they say they want to get a job or to…
In November, OAR’s Board of Directors authorized funding for six new applied autism research studies in 2021. These new grants, totaling $240,000, bring OAR’s total research funding to more than $4.4 million since 2002. This is the second of six previews to be featured in The OARacle this year. Autistic college students report increased depression,…
Three recent studies highlighted in the news have focused on healthcare and autism, with implications for autistic adults, young adults, and children. Chronic Physical Health Conditions A study by researchers at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom, found that adults with autism are more likely than others to have chronic physical health conditions that…
This school year has created many challenges for parents. Should I send my kids to school? Or let them learn at home virtually? In many cases, families don’t even have choices. For families that include autistic children, the challenges are multiplied. Recent news stories have highlighted one of those challenges: wearing face masks. As noted…
Right now, in the midst of the pandemic, the autistic community is in a very vulnerable place. With former commitments and structures stripped away or altered in format, it can be difficult for us to cope, especially those of us who may face social isolation due to challenges with social skills or health issues. Social…
In this unprecedented situation that COVID-19 and the associated lockdown have brought about, autistic people and their families are disproportionately affected. Increased Responsibilities and a Lack of Resources As noted in an article on the Disability Scoop website, a recent report done by the National Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Family Support at…
In order to be able to live independently, it is necessary to be able to walk from place to place and cross streets successfully. Many autistic adults, however, are not able to safely navigate as a pedestrian, which makes a variety of activities, from holding a job and attending school to shopping and going to…
All parents have household safety concerns, usually starting when their child begins crawling around the house. Baby-proofing the home is at the top of any parent’s priority list. However, children with autism may face unique risks because of their tendency to fixate on certain items or display sensory-seeking behaviors, which can leave them unaware of…
With a new school year drawing closer, school districts across the country are weighing difficult decisions about the best way to continue education for their students while keeping them safe and stopping the spread of COVID-19. From remote learning to in-person classes to some hybrid of the two, educators are weighing a variety of solutions…
Healthy dating relationships are an important part of development. However, a significant number of high school students say that they have experienced dating violence. While there are not national statistics on how many young people with autism have had similar experiences, the fact that many people with autism have trouble with social skills is a…
