March 3, 2008 VOTE 4 ASD
Alberta Provincial Election
ASA Questions for All The Candidates:
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are complex developmental disabilities that typically appear during the first three years of life. Early diagnosis and intervention is an important factor in ensuring treatment through the lifespan provides maximum benefit.
Autism Spectrum Disorder is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Children and adults with ASD typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions and leisure or play activities. As a spectrum disorder; ASD affects each individual differently and at varying degrees. Today one in 150 children born in Canada will be diagnosed with and Autism Spectrum Disorder ASD, and ASD is the fastest growing developmental disability, with a startling growth rate of 17%
Autism Society of Alberta (ASA) is a grassroots organization within the autism community connecting to its’ provincial members through regional chapters and networking with agencies and associations throughout the province and nation wide.
ASA is dedicated to increasing public awareness about autism and the day-to-day issues faced by individuals with autism, their families and the professionals with whom they interact. The Society and its chapters share a common mission of providing information and education, as well as supporting research and advocating for programs and services for the autism community.
ASA invites you to share your view on the issues surrounding autism. We would appreciate you taking a few moments to respond to the questions below so that we can provide our members, and the autism community, with more information about your views and positions.
1) Treatment
How would you address the disparity in regional services for autism-related treatments and services?
2) Education
How would you enhance the quality of education and ensure consistency for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder throughout the province? How would you promote the development of meaningful post secondary opportunities for adults living with Autism Spectrum Disorders?
3) Employment
How would you address the problem of unemployment and underemployment of individuals with autism?
4) Adults with ASD
How would you work to improve access and funding to comprehensive treatments, interventions and services for individuals with autism and their families across the lifespan?
5) ASD Research
Would you support increased funding for autism-related research, treatments and interventions which would provide immediate benefit to individuals and families, including research of biomedical interventions to explore the underlying physiology of the disorder?
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and views with ASA and the autism community. If you have any questions, or would like more information, please feel free to contact us at 1-877-777-7192 or email president@autismsocietyalberta.org
