Fostering inclusion in clinical and research procedures in autistic youth through augmentative and alternative communication: a narrative review and a proposal for visual aids application in brain stimulation

Abstract

Autistic children and adolescents often experience medical and neurocognitive co-occurrences that necessitate regular healthcare monitoring. Language difficulties, often observed in autistic individuals, can impede effective communication and participation in medical settings, potentially reducing treatment compliance. Communication barriers also pose challenges in involving autistic youth in research protocols, such as those including Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation (NIBS). Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) strategies could facilitate the participation of autistic individuals in both healthcare and research settings. This narrative review synthesizes the use of AAC to enhance compliance in healthcare and clinical research contexts for autistic children and adolescents. Findings suggest that AAC aids can reduce stress and anxiety, thereby improving adherence to healthcare protocols. However, no studies were identified that specifically address AAC’s role in enhancing compliance during clinical research procedures involving autistic children and adolescents. Based on the current literature, here we propose a set of AAC aids to improve understanding and compliance with NIBS in autistic individuals.