All who wander are not lost. But many are lost and need help.

In recognition of September 26th, this podcast explores one of the more dangerous issues in autism: wandering. But it’s really not wandering in the traditional sense. Wandering in autism mostly means running off, bolting, deliberately with intent and without permission. Obviously this leads to some very dangerous situations for people on the spectrum. How can it be mitigated or understood? Some behavioral therapies are helpful, but new technologies have allowed for more options to bring back loved ones that have run off unexpectedly. Finally, the community needs to be better aware of possible stressors or triggers that trigger a wandering episode and work together with families to prevent running off. This problem is not caused by one thing, and the community needs multiple solutions to keep kids and adults safe.

www.september26.org

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37492814/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32576789/

September 26th is the day to prepare for an emergency

Today is September 26th. In collaboration with the National Council of Severe Autism, we encourage all families to rethink their safety plan for wandering, fire, and other emergencies including national disasters like hurricanes by going to September26.org and doing a home checkup and prepare. Also, participate in a webinar at noon eastern today here: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81442112062.

September26.org

Instead of a podcast, this week is a message in honor of the 1 year anniversary of the death of advocate and mother Feda Amaliti. Stay safe. Out of this tragedy, a website has been built that contains information for families on how to prepare for an unexpected emergency and what to do when it happens. Please go to www.september26.org.

Also, we need your help in figuring out what the needs of families with disabilities are in terms of safety training and education. Please fill out this survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LivingSafelyWithDisabilities2