The Aquatic WATSU® Therapy Program Improves the Quality of Life of an Adult Male with Autism Spectrum Disorder. A Case Report

Abstract

The purpose of this single case study was to investigate the effects of the WATSU training program (WTP) on 21 years old male with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This study used a high level of individual and structured interventions to improve the underperforming adaptive functioning areas like social and academic skills in ASD. The individualized intervention of WTP was completed in five days using critical verbal and bodily language, technical demonstration, taking turns, basic skills, and timely feedback in a social and sensory-isolated environment. The results were collected via in-training observation, semi-structured family and athletic trainer interviews to evaluate the participant’s condition before and after the WTP. The structured communication opportunities improved the sense of trust and played a prominent role in the development of the quality of life. The results indicated that WTP reduced repetitive movements, stress reactions, challenging behaviors, and improved communication skills. In addition, changing roles, positions, and transitions in WATSU training increased the participant’s resiliency in his life with more comfort. Finally, tactile-emotional quality afferents, warmth, and buoyancy of the water, altered and enriched proprioceptive and vestibular input, being safely cradled in the arms instructor were likely to be the other factors improving the underperforming areas including communication, repetitive movements, stress reactions and challenging behaviors.

The Long-Term Adaptations of a Combined Swimming and Aquatic Therapy Intervention in an Adult Person with High-Functioning Autism (Asperger’s Syndrome): A Case Study

“…Past research suggests that swimming interventions applied to young adults with ASD for a period of 12 weeks usually result in the improvement of social skills [25]. However, a recent study concluded that the implementation of an aquatic therapy program on a young adult (21 years old) with ASD resulted in fewer repetitive movements and stress reactions, as well as enhanced communication skills [26]. Based on this finding, it is of interest to examine the long-term adaptations in the physical fitness and of swimming and aquatic therapy in adults with HFA.…”

“…Bend Arm Hang test: this test assessed the functional capacity and muscular endurance of the upper limbs [26]. The participant hung from a yoke with hands at shoulder width, palms facing forward and elbows bent, so that his chin and gaze stayed above the bar.…”