Autism, The NDIS And How Exercise May Be Able To Help?
Autism is a complex neurodevelopment disorder that affects the way people communicate and interact with others. It is typically diagnosed in early childhood and can cause many symptoms, including difficulty with social interactions and communication, repetitive behaviours, and sensory sensitivities.
A specific program designed by an Exercise Physiologist can be an effective treatment option for people with autism, as it can provide various physical, cognitive, and social benefits. And regular physical activity can help to improve physical health and fitness, enhance cognitive functioning, and promote social interactions. Here’s what you need to know.
How Exercise Physiology Can Help
One of the main benefits of an Exercise Physiology program for people with autism is that it can help to improve physical health and fitness. Exercise can help to increase strength, flexibility, and endurance, and it can also help to reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions such as obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
In addition to its physical benefits, exercise can also have a positive impact on cognitive functioning in people with autism, assisting them at school and also entering the workforce. Physical activity has been shown to increase blood flow to the brain, improving cognitive performance and enhancing learning and memory. Exercise can also help to reduce stress and improve mood, which can be beneficial for people with autism who may be prone to anxiety and mood disturbances.
Another important benefit of an Exercise Physiology program specifically designed for people with autism is that it can promote social interactions. Many people with autism struggle with social interactions and may have difficulty engaging in activities with others. Exercise can provide a fun and engaging way for people with autism to interact with others and develop social skills. For example, participating in team sports can offer opportunities for people with autism to learn how to communicate and work with others. It can also help to improve social confidence.
Exercise can also provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem in people with autism. By setting goals and achieving them through regular physical activity, people with autism can feel a sense of pride and accomplishment, which can be particularly important for those struggling with other aspects of their lives.
What does the latest research actually say?
Exercise appears to provide significant benefits for people with autism spectrum disorder, according to a growing body of research. As clinicians, we have to support our recommendations for therapy supports under the NDIS with research. So let's take a look at just some of the latest research that is supporting these benefits.
Research published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders indicated that children with ASD who engaged in a physical exercise program showed significant changes in their social behaviour, communication skills, and quality of life.
Anxiety and depression symptoms were shown to be reduced in those with ASD who participated in regular exercise, according to a study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. The findings imply that regular physical activity can boost mood and aid in stress management for those with ASD.
Improved cardiovascular health: People on the autism spectrum frequently have lower fitness levels than the general population, which can lead to a number of health problems. Children with autism spectrum disorder can benefit from a structured exercise program, according to research published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.
As a result of physical activity, individuals with autism's executive function can improve, according to a review of studies published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. This includes better attention, working memory, and overall mental agility, which is hugely important for education and employment.
To summerise some the research findings, it shows that regular exercise can help people on the autism spectrum in many ways. These include better social behaviour, less anxiety and sadness, more physical fitness, and higher executive function. However, the greater investigation into the mechanisms that contribute to these benefits is required before effective exercise therapies can be created for people with ASD
How Can Aevum Health Physiotherapy Assist?
Under the right guidance, exercise can provide a wide range of physical, cognitive, and social benefits for people with autism. By engaging in regular physical activity, people with autism can improve their physical health and fitness, enhance cognitive functioning, and promote social interactions.
The Aevum physio team is experienced and ready to assist, whether you’re looking for assistance at Aevum physio Helensburgh, physiotherapy Sutherland Shire, Cronulla physiotherapy, physio Kirrawee, Illawong physio, or Engadine physiotherapy.
If you or someone you know has autism, speak to a healthcare professional at Aevum about the benefits of exercise and how it can be incorporated into a NDIS therapy plan.