Monthly News | February 2025 | |
|
Hello Administrators,
For nearly 60 years, we have upheld our independent legacy. ARI-funded research and education are sustained by generous donor support—we do not seek federal grants or accept funding from special interest groups. This funding is needed now more than ever. Our programs collectively aim to translate complex concepts about potential causes and treatments for autism into meaningful information that engages and empowers our community. To learn more, visit our website at Autism.org.
As part of our work, ARI co-sponsored a Think Tank on autism and/or intellectual disability in older adulthood (defined as age 50 and older) that identified concerns about the lack of training resources to guide care and support for this population. We are seeking additional input from individuals with lived experience, families, caregivers, researchers, clinicians, and professionals who have have insight into autism and intellectual disability in older adults. If you or someone you care for is on the autism spectrum and 50 years of age or older, we would appreciate it if you could complete an online form.
Thank you for helping us make a positive impact on the lives of Autistic adults and individuals with intellectual disabilities. Every voice matters!
Stephen M. Edelson, Ph.D.
Autism Research Institute
| |
|
Watch now: Co-occurring Metabolic Conditions and Emerging Research on Brain Imaging
These activities have been approved for complimentary AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™
| | |
|
|
In joint-providership with ARI, the Cleveland Clinic offers complimentary webcasts on autism to healthcare professionals and the general public.
The latest webcast series is facilitated by Marvin Natowicz, MD, PhD, and features updates and Q&A on co-occurring metabolic conditions and
emerging research on brain imaging.
| |
ARI Team Spotlight - Rebecca McKenney | | |
|
Rebecca has been ARI's office manager for more than three decades. She has three daughters, one with Cerebral Palsy and autistic tendencies, and four grandchildren. Her hobbies are knitting, crocheting, gardening, traveling, and community involvement. Rebecca's experience and understanding are invaluable. She says, "I always feel I can relate to parents when they call ARI." | |
From ARRI: Vitamin A Deficiency Due to Over-selective Eating Linked to Serious Vision Problems in Autism | | |
|
Autistic children who have extremely limited food preferences may be at risk for eye damage due to low levels of vitamin A, according to studies from New Zealand and Argentina. | | |
From ARRI: More Evidence Links Autism, GI Problems | | |
|
The researchers report, “GI symptoms, specifically constipation, abdominal gases and distension, diarrhea, undigested food particles in stool, and mouth ulcers were significantly more frequent in the autistic group. Weight abnormalities (both increase and decrease) were also more common.” In addition, they found that within the autistic group, a family history of autism was significantly more common in children with GI symptoms. | | |
Participants needed: We’re seeking input from individuals with lived experience, families, caregivers, researchers, clinicians, and professionals who have insights on autism and intellectual disability in aging adults. Help shape better support and resources for older Autistic adults and/or those with intellectual disabilities. The survey only takes 10 minutes, but your input can make a lasting difference! | |
|
University-based researchers often contact ARI for help in finding research participants to add valuable data to our understanding of autism.
Research topics range from sibling differences to school experiences, trauma, adult issues, and more.
| |
Register Now: Free Upcoming Webinars | |
|
ARI Webinar 2/5:
Autism Health and Nutrition
| |
Learn about current research, best practices, and the importance of autism health and nutrition.
Presented by
Kelly Barnhill, MBA, CN, CCN
Johnson Center for Child Health and Development
1 p.m. Eastern Time (U.S.)
2/5/25
| |
|
ARI Webinar 2/19:
The Intersection of Race and Disability
| |
Current research studies on the intersectionality of race and autism (disability) across the lifespan, with a focus on the Black autistic adult population, and promising practices for building on the strengths of the Black autism community will be described.
Presented by
Dr. Amber Davis
Johns Hopkins University
1 p.m. Eastern Time (U.S.)
2/19/25
| |
|
ARI Webinar 2/26:
Treating Autism and Related Conditions in Adults
| |
ARI board member Robert Hendren, DO, discusses approaches for appropriately supporting symptoms of Autism and related conditions in adults.
Presented by
Dr. Robert L. Hendren
University of California, San Francisco
1 p.m. Eastern Time (U.S.)
2/26/25
| |
Making a Difference in 2025 | |
Give with confidence: ARI continues to receive Charity Navigator's highest "4-star" rating, a "Platinum" rating for transparency from Guidestar and a "Top Rated" badge from Great NonProfits. | |
|
Our work is made possible by generous donor support.
ARI’s independent legacy and commitment to funding innovative, impactful research and education remains steadfast. Our work is dedicated to providing trusted and relevant information to parents, autistic people, and professionals worldwide.
We are here to stay, and the funding we provide for innovative research and free online webinars is critically important to the community we serve. We are honored to support the community we serve.
| | | | | |
