Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Service User Perspective on Ageing Transition(S)

The health, social, educational aspects as well as the research in treatment and diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have largely focused on the younger population. In contrast, very little is known about ageing with ASD. In order to address both the current knowledge about the ageing in ASD and the real needs of the ageing ASD subjects, we conducted a survey of 45 individuals who were either formal or informal carers of people with ASD or themselves had the diagnosis. Participants identified long-term management, diagnosis and awareness regarding ageing in ASD to be major topics for further work and investment rather than aetiology and treatment. They also identified two major themes for action: person-centred care (to include accurate diagnosis of ASD irrespective of age) and long-term support and care in community.