A recent groundbreaking study conducted by King’s College London has uncovered that a significant portion of middle-aged and elderly individuals with autism in the UK are living with undiagnosed autism, along with various mental and physical health challenges. The study also brought to light concerning gaps in autism research focusing on older individuals with the condition.
The research, which was published in the Annual Review of Developmental Psychology, revealed that about 23% of individuals under 19 years old with autism are suspected to be undiagnosed. In stark contrast, a staggering 96% of autistic individuals over the age of 60 have never been formally diagnosed.
Among the older age group, the study found alarmingly high rates of missed diagnoses, with 96.29% of autistic men and 97.19% of autistic women over 60 lacking a proper diagnosis. In the 40 to 59 age bracket, a significant number of individuals remained undiagnosed, with 91.45% of autistic men and 79.48% of autistic women falling into this category. However, diagnostic rates improved in the 20 to 39 age range, with only 53.17% of autistic men and 49.27% of autistic women without a diagnosis.
Overall, the study concluded that 89% of autistic adults over the age of 40 are living without a diagnosis. Dr. Gavin Stewart, the principal author of the review and a British Academy Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the IoPPN, expressed concern over the high rates of underdiagnosis, emphasizing the potential negative impact on the affected individuals’ well-being and the lack of appropriate support available to them.
Furthermore, the study highlighted that middle-aged and elderly individuals with autism experience higher levels of various physical and mental health conditions compared to non-autistic adults. These conditions include immune disorders, heart disease, neurological issues, digestive problems, anxiety, depression, as well as age-related ailments such as Parkinson’s disease, cognitive impairments, osteoporosis, and arthritis.
It was also discovered that elderly individuals exhibiting high autistic traits were more prone to suicidal thoughts, self-harm ideation, actual self-harm, and early onset dementia compared to non-autistic individuals. Autistic adults faced challenges in employment, relationships, and overall quality of life due to social isolation and barriers in accessing healthcare support.
Professor Francesca Happé, a co-author of the review and Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience at the IoPPN, emphasized the importance of understanding and addressing the evolving needs of aging autistic individuals. The researchers called for further studies to gain deeper insights into the experiences of autistic individuals in midlife and older age to improve outcomes and provide better support as they age.
If individuals suspect they may be showing signs of autism, the NHS recommends seeking assistance from a healthcare professional for an autism assessment. This evaluation, conducted by autism experts, involves discussing any difficulties experienced, consulting with acquaintances, and observing interactions to aid in obtaining appropriate support and potential benefits.
In conclusion, the study underscores the critical need for increased awareness, research, and tailored support for autistic individuals as they navigate aging, aiming to enhance their quality of life and overall well-being.
