Capital Region Cares Capital Region Cares 2018-2019 | Page 65

throughout society so as many people
as possible may benefit. “We strive to
educate other researchers and clinicians,
as well as providers and teachers – the
people who can make a difference for
these kids every day,” says Abbeduto.
In just 20 years MIND Institute
researchers have made important
discoveries about the environmental,
biological, and genetic risks for autism,
fragile X syndrome and other disorders
and methods that may prevent and treat
them. They also have created extensive
training programs for parents, teachers,
and clinicians in the Sacramento region
and throughout the world so that every
affected child, beginning in infancy, gets
the best chance for healthy growth and
development.
In 2017, the Institute’s clinics had
6,100 patient visits for diagnosis,
treatment, testing, and parent education,
but the Institute seeks to serve the far
greater number in need. “A new initiative
for us is extending our reach, through
innovative technology, to more families,”
notes Abbeduto. “For example, we’re
exploring using telehealth technology, a
type of video interface, so we can train
and coach parents in their own homes,
in real time, in ways of supporting their
children’s development. This saves
families the burden of travel, and opens
our services to people from all locations,
backgrounds, and walks of life.”
The Institute also is using
virtual reality to train people with
neurodevelopmental disorders so they’re
better prepared for life’s challenges,
whether with family, school, or work,
and developing digital games that help
to improve learning and memory.
Abbeduto concludes, “Families
depend on our research, clinical
services, and training of scientists and
clinicians. We want to have the entire
community, including the business
community, recognize what we do and
the incredible strides we’ve made, and
to support us with any contributions and
technological assistance possible so we
can reach even more people in need.”
(ucdmc.ucdavis.edu/mindinstitute/)
the mind institute
is unique not
only because of
its important
accomplishments
in the realm of
neurodevelopment
disorders, but for
its commitment
to families and
community outreach.
profile generously sponsored by
comstocksmag.com | 2018 CAPITAL REGION CARES
65