In 2008, Danish researchers
found that the mortality rate among the autism
spectrum disorder (ASD) population is twice as high
as the general population. In 2001, a California
research team found that elevated death rates among
those with ASD were in large part attributed to
drowning. Drowning often occurs as a result of
wandering off. Drowning, along with prolonged
exposure and other factors, remain among the top
causes of death within the autism population.
Although there is no known data that recognizes
whether deaths associated with wandering are on the
rise within the autism population, anecdotal reports
suggest an increase.
There are various reasons someone with ASD may
wander, but mainly they are looking 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.
Wandering occurrences tend to increase in warmer
months when persons with ASD are more likely to play
outside or attend summer or day camps.
NAA
President, Wendy Fournier discusses Autism-Related
Wandering
with Erik Nanstiel of
FAIR Autism Media.
