Developing a wearable device to help children with autism learn toilet training
Official title: User-Centered Design of a Proactive RF-Based Wearable Bladder Monitor for Toilet Training of Children with ASD/IDD
Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-10742670 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a special wearable device for kids with autism and developmental disabilities that helps them know when they need to use the bathroom, making toilet training easier and helping them become more independent.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $399,239 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NR020653-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10742670 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or intellectual and developmental disabilities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are neurotypical and do not have any challenges with toilet training may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a wearable bladder monitor designed specifically for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The device aims to proactively alert users before accidents occur, helping them recognize the sensations associated with needing to use the toilet. By providing timely feedback, the goal is to improve toilet training success rates and enhance the independence of these children. The approach involves user-centered design, ensuring that the device meets the specific needs of its young users and their caregivers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve toilet training outcomes and overall quality of life for children with ASD and IDD.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been advancements in assistive technologies for various disabilities, this specific proactive approach to toilet training for children with ASD and IDD is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Estep, Laura — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Estep, Laura
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.