0786 Using Assistive Technology To Support Parents In The Management Of Sleep Problems Experienced By Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Introduction: Insomnia is one of the most commonly reported problems in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Inadequate sleep is distressing, has a negative impact on health, well-being, daily functioning and quality of life. Method(s): Parent report questionnaires assessed sleep behaviors and quality of life for the families and 15 ASD participants aged between 4 - 12 years pre-and post intervention. The 12-week intervention targeted behaviors related to bedtime resistance, sleep onset delay, night waking, early morning waking and co-sleeping. Sleep Diaries and the Actigraphy documented sleep duration and time to fall asleep during the treatment phase. Specifically developed assistive technology in the form of a sleep app supported the parent training which incorporated sleep education and behavioral strategies. Result(s): Participants demonstrated improvements in sleep duration and time needed to fall asleep. Improvements were also noted in the quality of life and parent satisfaction was high. Sleep improvements are discussed in relation to the targeted sleep behaviors and compliance with the use of the assistive technology utilised to support individualized bedtime routines. Conclusion(s): Overall the intervention empowered families to manage sleep routines which may increase long-term feelings of wellbeing and significantly improve the quality of life for those with ASD and their families. With further research replication the assistive technology utilised within the current study has the potential to support sleep clinicians in the implementation of sleep interventions and promote positive treatment outcomes.