CDC Kerala 9: Effectiveness of low intensity home based early intervention for autism spectrum disorder in India

To validate effectiveness of low intensity, home based early intervention (EI) models in autism for countries with low disability resources.

Fifty-two toddlers and young children were assessed before and after intervention with Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Vineland Social Maturity Scale, and Receptive-Expressive Emergent Language Scale. Developmental and speech therapists helped mothers assemble low-cost training kits based on the developmental age of the child, gave initial training in the basic behavioral technique to address the three autism symptom clusters at home. Follow-up support was given either on a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis. Most of the children were also placed in play-schools. Data was analyzed using appropriate bivariate and multivariate techniques.

There was statistical and clinical amelioration in the severity of autism, with acquisition of social skills and language skills (all P = 0.001) after intervention in children with mild to severe autism. Gender showed a trend in becoming a significant predictor for intervention response.

Low-intensity, home-based EI can be effectively used in situations where there is paucity of disability resources in countries like India, especially in primary-care and community settings.