People with Developmental Disorders Struggling After Quakes in Japan

Kumamoto, Japan (PNA/Kyodo) — People with developmental disorders in Kumamoto Prefecture have been finding it particularly difficult to adapt to their new environments after major earthquakes in southwestern Japan forced them away from their homes and familiar settings, support groups said Tuesday.

Local support groups have received inquiries in about 300 cases concerning children and adults with autism and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, among other developmental problems, since the magnitude 6.5 quake on April 14, which was followed by a M7.3 quake two days later, they said.

“We had been unable to fully understand their needs,” said a Kumamoto city official, adding the municipality aims to analyze the consultations for the future. (PNA/Kyodo) RMA/SSC