Visual supports at home and in the community for individuals with autism spectrum disorders: A scoping review

Abstract

Visual supports are recommended in autism spectrum disorder clinical guidelines. They can reduce anxiety, increase predictability, support communication and improve participation. They are implemented regularly in schools but evidence about home visual supports is limited. This paper reports results of a scoping literature review, alongside qualitative evaluation with parents and professionals. We report findings from 34 studies, identifying 4 categories of visual support and heterogeneity in participant characteristics, intervention methods, environments and outcome measures. Qualitative data from questionnaires (n=101) and focus groups generated key themes about home visual supports, through thematic analysis: 1) Access 2) Participation focussed 3) Individualisation 4) Teaching methods 5) Consistency 6) Information and Training. We propose consensus with terminology and implications for practice and research.