Nonprofit uses VR to help children with autism spectrum disorders

Autism XR, a nonprofit based out of Boise, Idaho, is using virtual reality (VR) to help children on the autism spectrum prepare for a variety of real-life experiences.

According to a new report from the Idaho Statesman, the company has worked closely with VR vendors and physicians who specialize in treating autism spectrum disorders. The University of Idaho is even getting involved, turning its Virtual Technology & Design Lab into a “research scenario” for certain students.  

“You’re living with autism, but it doesn’t define you,” Mitch Alexander, president and executive director of Autism XR, told the Idaho Statesman.

Alexander used VR to help his own 11-year-old son prepare for what it would be like to ride an airplane. That experience helped lead him to starting Autism XR and working closely with these children to make an impact on their day-to-day lives and their futures.

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Michael Walter
Michael Walter, Managing Editor

Michael has more than 18 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.

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