The Possibility of Curing Level 3 Autism

Autism

Explore if 'can level 3 autism be cured' is a reality or a myth. Dive into treatments, progress and recovery.

Steven Zauderer

April 25, 2024

9 min read

min read

Understanding Level 3 Autism

When it comes to autism, one of the most challenging cases to manage is Level 3 Autism. This level, often categorized as "requiring very substantial support", is characterized by severe social and communication challenges, and often necessitates round-the-clock care and assistance.

Characteristics of Level 3 Autism

Individuals with Level 3 Autism commonly exhibit severe difficulties in social communication and may be nonverbal or have extremely limited speech abilities. Many are often unaware of people around them and may resort to alternative methods to communicate, such as spelling boards, sign language, Picture Exchange Communication Systems, or Speech Generating Devices [1].

They also tend to display self-stimulatory and repetitive behaviors, which may include potentially extreme actions that can be challenging to manage. These actions can range from moaning, flapping, door slamming, violent rocking, to self-injurious behaviors like head-banging, attempting to consume non-food items, biting their arms, or pulling their hair. Aggressive actions like biting, kicking, hitting others, banging doors, or smearing feces may also be observed, necessitating effective and quick responses from caregivers [1].

Cognitive impairment is another characteristic associated with Level 3 Autism, with individuals often displaying low to very low IQs, even when tested using non-verbal tools. However, with proper care and support, they can learn to communicate effectively using various tools.

Challenges Faced by Individuals

Managing Level 3 Autism is a demanding task that requires significant effort and patience from caregivers. Due to profound challenges, individuals with Level 3 Autism often require 24-hour-a-day care and are unable to live independently. Caregivers, in turn, often experience burnout and may need support services that can be administered through state or county health departments in the United States [2].

The path to progress and recovery for individuals with Level 3 Autism is often slower compared to levels 1 and 2. However, with an accurate diagnosis, impactful therapy plans, and early interventions, there is potential for improvement over time [1].

In the quest to answer the question of "can level 3 autism be cured", it's crucial to understand that while there is no known cure for autism, treatments are available to help manage symptoms, improve functionality, and enhance the quality of life for autistic individuals. The goal is to provide the necessary support to help them lead a fulfilling life, despite the challenges they face.

Communication and Social Skills

One of the significant challenges faced by individuals with level 3 autism involves communication and social interaction. These individuals are often non-verbal and may seem unaware of the people around them [2]. However, with the right strategies and support, improvements can be made in these areas.

Communication Strategies for Non-Verbal Individuals

Non-verbal does not mean non-communicative. Individuals with level 3 autism may not use spoken language, but they can still express themselves and interact with the world around them in alternative ways. Various tools and methods have been developed to support communication in non-verbal individuals with autism.

For example, spelling boards, sign language, Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS), and Speech Generating Devices (SGDs) are widely used communication aids. These tools can significantly enhance the quality of life for non-verbal individuals, providing them with a means to express their needs, wants, and emotions.

Communication Tools	Description
Spelling Boards	A board with letters or symbols that the individual can point to, facilitating spelling out words or phrases.
Sign Language	A method of communication using hand gestures, facial expressions, and body language.
Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS)	A system where individuals exchange pictures to communicate their needs and wants.
Speech Generating Devices (SGDs)	Electronic devices that convert text or symbols into spoken words, allowing the individual to "speak."

Social Interaction Support

Social interaction can be challenging for individuals with level 3 autism. They may appear not to notice people around them or show little interest in socializing. However, with the right support, they can learn to engage in social interactions to some extent.

Social skills training, structured play activities, and occupational therapy can help these individuals understand and navigate social situations. It's important to note that progress may be slow, and each individual's capabilities will vary. With patience and consistent support, individuals with level 3 autism can learn to interact more effectively with their environment and the people around them.

While the question of "can level 3 autism be cured" is complex and varies from individual to individual, enhancing communication and social skills can significantly improve the quality of life for these individuals. Each small step forward is a victory worth celebrating.

Behavioral Patterns

In the journey to understand if level 3 autism can be cured, it's important to delve into the behavioral patterns that manifest in individuals with this severity of autism. These behaviors generally include self-stimulatory actions and self-injurious or aggressive behaviors.

Self-Stimulatory Behaviors

Self-stimulatory behaviors, also known as stimming, are commonly exhibited by individuals with level 3 autism. These behaviors may include actions such as moaning, flapping, door slamming, or violent rocking, and they are often difficult to manage [1]. Such behaviors can be repetitious and extreme, and they often stem from an individual's need for self-soothing or sensory stimulation.

Despite the challenges these behaviors present, it's important to remember that stimming is a coping mechanism for individuals with autism. If it's not harmful or disruptive, it is usually not necessary to completely eliminate these behaviors. Instead, efforts can be focused on managing and redirecting these behaviors in a safe and acceptable manner.

Self-Injurious and Aggressive Behaviors

Individuals with level 3 autism may also display self-injurious behaviors, which can include actions like head-banging, attempting to consume non-food items, biting their arms, or pulling their hair. Additionally, these individuals may also display aggressive actions, such as biting, kicking, hitting others, banging doors, or smearing feces.

Aggressive behaviors and self-injury are common challenges faced by autistic individuals with high support needs. These behaviors may stem from frustration, sensory overload, or physical pain [2]. Addressing these behaviors effectively and promptly is crucial for the safety and well-being of these individuals.

In both self-stimulatory and self-injury or aggressive behaviors, it's crucial to identify the triggers or causes behind these behaviors. Once these triggers are identified, it's possible to devise strategies to minimize these behaviors or redirect them in a safer, more acceptable manner. This can contribute to improving the quality of life for individuals with level 3 autism, marking a step forward in the ongoing exploration of whether level 3 autism can be cured.

Treatment and Support

When considering the question, "can level 3 autism be cured," it is important to understand that while there is currently no cure for autism, various therapeutic interventions can significantly improve the quality of life and functionality of individuals with level 3 autism. Additionally, support services for caregivers are essential to help manage the daily challenges and ensure the well-being of both the individual with autism and their families.

Therapeutic Interventions

For individuals with level 3 autism, a combination of interventions is often necessary. These typically include a mix of behavioral, developmental, pharmacological, and psychological approaches, as well as the use of neurotechnology [3].

Behavioral approaches, particularly Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), are widely recognized for treating symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ABA encourages desired behaviors and discourages undesired behaviors to improve a variety of skills. Two teaching styles within ABA are Discrete Trial Training (DTT) and Pivotal Response Training (PRT) [3].

Developmental approaches focus on improving specific developmental skills like language skills or physical skills, or a broader range of interconnected developmental abilities. They are often combined with behavioral approaches for a more comprehensive treatment plan [3].

Pharmacological interventions do not treat the core symptoms of ASD but can help manage co-occurring symptoms such as anxiety or depression, and medical conditions like seizures, sleep problems, or gastrointestinal problems [3].

Psychological approaches, such as Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT), can assist individuals with ASD in coping with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, emphasizing the connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors [3].

Lastly, neurotechnology offers promise in helping individuals with ASD in the areas of communication and social impairment. These technologies are typically portable, easily adopted, and enjoyable to use.

Support Services for Caregivers

Caregivers of individuals with level 3 autism often face significant challenges. Fortunately, various support services are available to assist caregivers in managing these challenges. These services often include educational resources, support groups, respite care services, and counseling.

The goal of these services is to provide caregivers with the tools and support they need to effectively care for their loved ones with autism while also taking care of their own well-being. By utilizing these services, caregivers can gain a better understanding of autism, develop effective strategies for managing daily challenges, and connect with others who are facing similar experiences.

Remember, while there may not be a cure for level 3 autism, with the right treatment and support, individuals with autism can lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

Progress and Recovery

One of the most asked questions about level 3 autism is, "Can level 3 autism be cured?" While autism is not curable, with the right support, treatments, and interventions, individuals with level 3 autism can show significant improvement over time.

Long-Term Outlook

Autistic individuals with high support needs, classified as level 3 autism, often require round-the-clock care and assistance, as they may be nonverbal, struggle with communication, and have profound challenges [2]. They also tend to have low to very low IQs, even when tested using non-verbal tools. However, it's important to note that IQ does not define an individual's worth or potential. Some individuals with intense autism traits can learn to communicate effectively using tools like sign language or communication devices.

Children with level 3 autism, when provided with accurate diagnosis, impactful therapy plans, and early interventions, have a better chance of improving over time, although the recovery process may be slower compared to levels 1 and 2 autism [1].

Potential for Improvement

Although there is no cure for autism, there are several treatment options available to help individuals living with intense traits. Treatments for autistic individuals with high support needs often include medications for anxiety and related issues, as well as non-medical therapies such as applied behavior analysis (ABA) and sensory integration therapy.

Progress might look different for every individual with level 3 autism. For some, improvement might mean acquiring new skills or becoming more independent. For others, progress might be reducing self-harm behaviors or learning to communicate needs effectively.

While the journey might be challenging, with the right support, therapies, and interventions, individuals with level 3 autism can lead meaningful and fulfilling lives. This underscores the importance of early diagnosis and intervention, as well as the need for ongoing support and understanding from caregivers, educators, and society as a whole.

Autism Spectrum Overview

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encompasses a wide range of conditions, characterized by varying degrees of challenges in social interaction, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication. To understand the question 'can level 3 autism be cured', it's crucial to comprehend the various levels of ASD and the available treatment approaches.

Levels of Autism Spectrum Disorder

There are three identified levels of ASD, each representing different degrees of the condition.

Level 1 ASD: This level includes individuals previously diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome. These individuals may experience difficulties with social cues and forming relationships, but they can typically understand and speak in complete sentences.
Level 2 ASD: Children at this level exhibit more pronounced social communication challenges and repetitive behaviors compared to Level 1. They may also struggle with behavioral inflexibility and have difficulty adjusting to changes in routine [5].
Level 3 ASD: This level, also known as severe autism, requires substantial support. Individuals in this category exhibit severe challenges in social communication, have very limited initiation of social interactions, and may be nonverbal or have extremely limited speech abilities.

Treatment Approaches and Options

While autism is not curable, there are numerous treatment options available to assist individuals living with intense autism traits. It's important to remember that every individual on the autism spectrum is unique, and what works for one might not work for another.

Treatments for individuals with high support needs can include:

Medications: These are often used to manage anxiety and related issues.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): This therapy uses positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors.
Sensory Integration Therapy: This therapy can help individuals manage sensory challenges.

Furthermore, support services can provide relief for parents and caregivers of autistic individuals with high support needs, who often face caregiver burnout. These services can be administered through state or county health departments in the United States.

In conclusion, the answer to 'can level 3 autism be cured' is currently no, but there are various treatment options and support services available to help individuals with ASD and their families lead fulfilling lives.