Wandering Prevention & SafetyThe Foundation for Autism Information & Research is gravely concerned about the safety issues surrounding wandering (elopement) in the autism community, and the many tragedies that have occurred where autistic children have died due to drownings, exposure to the elements or accidents and abduction. This video gallery will grow as we collect interviews and resources to help spread awareness of the problem and the countermeasures that parents, caregivers and communities can enact to prevent elopement and tragedy.
Here is a descriptive excerpt from the AWAARE.org website:
Why would a Child or Adult with Autism Wander Off?
Many reasons. Mainly, a person with autism will wander to either get to something or away from something. Like dementia, persons with autism gravitate towards items of interest. This could be anything from a road sign they once saw to a neighbor’s pool to a merry-go-round in the park. Other times, they may want to escape an environment if certain sounds or other sensory input becomes bothersome. Outdoor gatherings present an especially large problem because it is assumed that there are more eyes on the child or adult with autism. However, heavy distractions coupled with an over-stimulating setting can lead to a child or adult wandering off without notice. School settings are also an issue, especially those that have un-fenced or un-gated playgrounds. A new, unfamiliar, or unsecured environment, such as a relative’s home, may also trigger wandering, as well as episodes of distress, meltdowns, or times when a child or adult with autism has certain fears or anxiety.
Please visit www.awaare.org for more information.
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All video clips are the copyright of the Foundation for Autism Information and Research (F.A.I.R. Autism Media) and are intended for informational purposes only. The content herein is not intended as medical advice.
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Visit the following websites for more information on the National Autism Association's collaborative efforts.
Wendy Fournier
May, 2011Wendy Fournier, president of the National Autism Association, discusses the growing crisis of child wandering deaths within the autism community. She tells FAIR's Erik Nanstiel about the initiatives that the N.A.A. is taking to combat this serious threat to the safety and health of children with autism everywhere.
