AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER CARE DURING THE PANDEMIC: INTELLECTUAL REHAB AT CER III OF APAE IN BAURU

Abstract

This paper aims to report the professional experience of the multidisciplinary team at the Specialized Center for Rehabilitation - CER III of APAE in Bauru, in the care of children and adolescents with ASD during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many families of children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) live with new challenges from an early age, such as difficulties in establishing or maintaining a routine of interaction, communication, and behavior, often reflecting on school issues. During the pandemic, there was a halt in their daily routines, which many autistic people may not understand. This forces many families to reorganize themselves, bringing new challenges for them and for the professionals who care for them. Professionals have to adapt their care by telephone, video call, monthly guidance with activities, and a new protocol for face-to-face care (for individuals and no longer groups). It was necessary to rethink the activities on the commemorative dates that became Drive-thru style to avoid crowds. During this period, it was also necessary for families to engage more in carrying out activities outside the therapeutic environment. With all this change in care strategies, it was possible to observe gains and losses for patients, requiring further studies to identify the dimensions of the post-pandemic impacts.