Bridging the Gap: Supporting Families of Children with Autism Across Canada
At LUMOS Technologies, we spend much of our time analyzing the gaps between needs and solutions – especially where they matter most: our children’s health. One of the most pressing challenges we face as a society is ensuring that every child, no matter where they live, has access to timely and appropriate support when diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Globally, ASD represents a growing concern. According to a 2024 study by Issac, approximately 0.77% of children worldwide have been diagnosed with autism. That may sound like a small percentage, but it translates to millions of children in need of specialized care, early intervention, and ongoing support.
In Canada, this need is even more pronounced. Data from the 2019 Canadian Health Survey of Children and Youth (2020) reveals that 1 in 50 children are diagnosed with autism, which means millions of Canadians. While the Government of Canada continues to improve data collection and support strategies, especially for autistic adults, the reality is clear: the availability and accessibility of autism-related services vary drastically between provinces, territories, and communities.
The Hidden Barrier: Distance
For families living in remote or rural areas, the physical distance to healthcare centres adds a heavy burden. This challenge is even more acute for Indigenous communities, where geographic isolation often intersects with systemic inequities in healthcare access. The result? Delays in diagnosis. Gaps in therapy. Missed opportunities for early intervention that could dramatically improve a child’s developmental path.
That’s why we developed the LUMOS App and the LUMOS Hub, tools designed with both mobility and inclusivity in mind.
How LUMOS is Closing the Gap
At LUMOS, we believe every family deserves accessible, high-quality autism support, no matter their location. That’s why we’ve developed two key solutions:
- LUMOS App – A mobile tool offering visual schedules, AAC communication tools, and interactive learning activities to support children with Level 2 autism at home, in school, or on the go.
- LUMOS Hub – A collaborative platform where families and specialists can build and track personalized learning plans together, reducing the need for constant in-person visits.
These tools are designed to empower parents and caregivers, providing immediate support while bridging the gap between clinical visits. Whether you’re in a major city or a remote community, LUMOS ensures your child has access to structured, evidence-based resources.
A Call for More Inclusive Autism Support
By leveraging technology, we are helping to level the playing field for families who would otherwise face barriers to care. Our goal is simple: to bring consistent, high-quality autism support to every corner of Canada.
Looking Ahead
We believe in a Canada where geography does not determine a child’s access to essential support. We believe in empowering Indigenous communities with tools that are adaptable, respectful, and accessible. Most of all, we believe in the power of early intervention and informed families.
If you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator seeking solutions for children with autism, especially in areas where access to care is limited, we invite you to explore what LUMOS Technologies has to offer. Together, we can bridge the distance and build a future where every child is supported, connected, and thriving.
To learn more about our products, visit Website or contact us directly. We’re here to help, wherever you are.
Sources:
Issac, A., Halemani, K., Shetty, A., Thimmappa, L., Vijay, V. R., Koni, K., Mishra, P., & Kapoor, V. (2025). The global prevalence of autism spectrum disorder in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Osong public health and research perspectives, 16(1), 3–27. https://doi.org/10.24171/j.phrp.2024.0286
Public Health Agency of Canada. (2024). Canada’s Autism Strategy. Government of Canada. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/diseases-conditions/canada-autism-strategy.html
Statistics Canada. (2020). Canadian Health Survey of Children and Youth, 2019: Public use microdata file user guide. Government of Canada. https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/82m0027x/82m0027x2020001-eng.htm
