Q. I heard that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has become even more prevalent than before. Why is this happening? With ASD being as common as it is, should all children be tested for it, as they are for other things? Also, with … [Read more...]
What is it Really Like to Live with Autism? A Nonverbal Woman Speaks Out
Q. We recently found out that our four-year-old granddaughter has autism, and will likely never speak. This is heartbreaking for us and her parents. With all the technology and therapies out there, there must be ways to teach her … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: How Technology Can Make Life Easier for Those with Autism
Dear Oakley, Our son was just diagnosed with autism and is nonverbal. What types of technology can help make life easier for him and for us? Thanks for your help, Hal Pinhimm --- Dear Hal, For people on the … [Read more...]
The Autism Cliff: Transition Planning for Young Adults with ASD
April used to be known as Autism Awareness Month. In 2021, the Autism Society of America changed the name to Autism Acceptance Month, in order to more accurately reflect what the month is all about. “Awareness is knowing that … [Read more...]
Does My Infant Grandson Have an Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Q. My daughter and son-in-law both work full-time, and I watch my 9-month old grandson, Caden, every day during the week. My daughter takes me with her to his doctor’s appointments, where they provide us with CDC guidelines for … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: Are Cats a Good Idea for Families with Children Who Have Autism? And Is It Good for the Cat?
Dear Angel, My son has an Autism Spectrum Disorder, and we are thinking of getting a family pet. I read somewhere that adding a cat to the family might be good for a child with autism. This is making us think of adopting a cat … [Read more...]
Where Do High Functioning Adults With Autism Live?
Some young adults in the US have their first taste of independent living after leaving high school. They may move out of their parent’s home and begin living in a college dorm with a roommate or on their own. It may happen when a … [Read more...]
FDA Approves an Accurate Test for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Q. I am in my mid 50’s and sometimes I think I am on the Autism Spectrum, though I was never formally diagnosed. I experience anxiety in social situations, avoid eye contact whenever I can, and am fixated on certain things. I … [Read more...]
How Having a Special Needs Loved One Affects Estate Planning and Retirement Planning
Q. Our daughter, Sophie, has an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She is verbal, but needs lots of help academically and with her social skills. She may not be able to live independently when she becomes an adult. When it comes to … [Read more...]
Why Special Needs Planning Is Even More Important During a Pandemic (Part 4 of a 4-part Series)
In what was originally a three-part series, I have decided to add one more essential part about special needs planning and why it’s especially important during a pandemic. In part one of this series, I discussed why estate … [Read more...]