In Hong Kong, the incidence of autism is 16.1 in every 10,000 children (0 - 14 years). Parents are distraught often not knowing for sure and, if indeed their loved one is diagnosed with the developmental disorder, psychologically unprepared to face the prospect together.
To help bring relief to parents in anxiety and confusion, the Consumer Council has sought the views of four experts and a parent group for practical information and guidance to the affected families.
According to the experts, each autistic child is uniquely different as the symptoms for autism are not necessarily similar. Children with autism usually have problems with language, intellect and concentration hindering their development in communication and interpersonal relationship.
Early intervention is generally considered conducive to sustainable improvement in the conduct and ability of autistic children as many studies concluded. The "golden period" is from 2 to 3 years. Early training before the age of 3 can effectively help the autistic child master life skills; it would be even better if commenced before the age of 2.
There are available a number of institutions offering autism treatment and services, varying quite considerably in charges and quality.
Consumers are advised to choose those with good repute and equally important with a comprehensive range of programmes and services combining therapists and psychologists in the different related fields.
Parents should be clear about the core problem of the child and the change and improvement they hope to see in the child.
Choose services that are evidence-based, clinically proven effective, and in consultation with the therapists set the short and long term goals to assess the progress of the therapy and effectiveness. Continuing training at home is equally vital and parents should see to it that the services provides for training to be accessible to them at home.
Autism is a developmental disorder that cannot be cured. The mix of training and intervention treatment is not curative, but it can enhance and strengthen the normal development and adaptability of patients and help them realize their potential.
Therefore, any treatment and service that claim to cure autism should be taken with caution.
Parents of autism children are under great stress and pressure and they themselves should be psychologically well prepared and if in need seek help:
- Accept the unique quality of your child, be considerate and accommodating, and learn to appreciate the child's strengths.
- Watch out and understand your own emotional need, rest and care is very important.
- Do not be inhibited in seeking help; consider joining parent and mutual help groups.
- As parents you are the most trusted persons of an autistic child; give time to keep your child company in training programmes and make use of the time at home to reinforce the training.
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