AOCCN 2025: Challenges in Autism Care: Identifying Unmet Needs of Children in Kerala

Presenter: Ms. Betsy Baby

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong condition requiring continuous support for language, communication, behavior, and medical challenges. Caregivers often face unmet needs influenced by socio-economic and cultural factors, yet data on their perceptions are limited.

This cross-sectional survey (January–December 2021) involved 100 caregivers of children aged 2–12 years with ASD in Kerala. Most respondents were mothers (68%). Common services included speech therapy (89%), behavior therapy (71%), and occupational therapy (62%). Major unmet needs were inadequate insurance coverage (89%), insufficient financial support (72%), limited ASD awareness (59%), and lack of social skills training (54%). Addressing these gaps can improve outcomes for children and families.

AOCCN 2025, September 17th-20th 2025, New Delhi, India.