Impact of Living with a Sibling with Autism Spectrum Disorder on Adolescents' QoL

A recent study aimed to compare the quality of life (QoL) of adolescent siblings of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD-Sibs) to those of siblings of typically developing children (TD-Sibs) and investigate factors influencing the quality of life (QoL). 

For this study, 40 children aged 10-18 years with ASD siblings were enrolled (Study group), while 40 age- and sex-matched siblings of typically developing children formed the Control group. The severity of autism was assessed using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale 2 (CARS-2), while QoL was evaluated using the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire Brief Version (WHO QoLBREF).

The results showed that ASD-Sibs had lower QoL scores than TD-Sibs in physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains. Among ASD-Sibs, the severity of the sibling's ASD and the family's socioeconomic status were the only factors significantly affecting one of the QoL domains.

The findings suggest the importance of considering impacts on the entire family when planning the holistic management of children with ASD. Targeted interventions for ASD-Sibs and their families are needed, including regular counseling for these siblings. Healthcare providers should identify the impact of ASD on unaffected siblings and recommend appropriate support measures. 

This research emphasizes the need for policies and programs that address the family unit rather than focusing solely on the affected child.

Source: Arya Y, Mishra D, Juneja M, Gupta AR. Indian Pediatrics. 2023 May 4:S097475591600537-.