What's Happening?
A narrative review of over 70 published papers has revealed that autistic adults face poorer health outcomes in midlife and old age compared to non-autistic peers. The review found that autistic individuals are more likely to experience physical and mental health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, anxiety, depression, and age-related conditions like osteoporosis and Parkinson's disease. Social support plays a crucial role in their quality of life, with strong social networks linked to higher well-being.
Why It's Important?
The findings underscore the need for more research focused on aging autistic adults, a group historically overlooked in autism studies. Understanding the unique health challenges faced by this population can lead to better healthcare access and support systems, improving their quality of life. The research also highlights the importance of social connections in mitigating health risks and enhancing well-being for autistic individuals as they age.
What's Next?
Future studies should aim to track autistic individuals throughout their lives, including those diagnosed in childhood and those with higher support needs. Involving autistic adults in research and policy development could ensure that their needs are met, promoting healthier and more fulfilling lives. Efforts to improve healthcare access and social engagement for aging autistic adults are likely to continue, addressing the challenges identified in the review.
