Evaluating the effects of a structured program for adults with autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disabilities

This study observes the evolution of persons with pervasive developmental disorders (PDD) and profound intellectual disabilities living in residences with a Program for Residents with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) characterised by a different educator's presence ratio and different logistic accommodations. This population is characterised by the need to live in a very structured and predictable environment and greatly benefits from specific programs in residential settings. We evaluated the evolution during 2.5 years of 2 groups of 10 residents using the Aberrant Behaviour Checklist (ABC) and the Children Autism Rating Scale (CARS). Evolution appears to be slow and irregular but we observed significant changes in social withdrawal along the study for one group. Possible implications of this study are discussed.