Fitbit-Like Device Shows Promise in Predicting Autism Aggression
May 14, 2018
By: Lindsay Kalter, Boston Herald/TNS
Source: Disability Scoop
A system that uses a digital wristband and a mobile app could someday predict future outbursts among children with autism, allowing family members and helpers to prevent and prepare for episodes.
“One of the problems when someone can’t tell you they’re distressed is these behaviors feel like they come completely out of the blue,” said Matthew Goodwin, a behavioral scientist at Northeastern University. “It’s about quality of life.”
Goodwin’s system uses a Fitbit-like device to monitor changes in the body. Once the mobile app has tracked each episode of aggression, an algorithm is used to predict behavior a minute into the future.