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The Complexities of Aging: Addressing the Unique Needs of Autistic Elders
Although there is little known about autism and aging, elders nonetheless need appropriate care now. Through learning about appropriate and intentional assessment and treatment, providers and allies can make a big difference, even in small ways. Although autistic traits are seen far back in...
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Advocating for Empowerment: Navigating End-of-Life Care for the Aging Autistic Population
While history began documenting autism in children in the early 1900s, it was not until later in the century that autism became recognized as a distinct circumstance. The first generation of children diagnosed with autism is just now moving into older age. With aging brings social, physical, and...
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Autism After 65 – Making the Most of the Golden Years
For the most part, this article is not based on research. I am using personal life experiences and the reports of individuals with whom I have corresponded and/or personally known for many years through research for my previous book, The Partner’s Guide to Asperger Syndrome. Many of the subjects...
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Best Practices in Support of Aging Adults with Autism
The DSM V which was released to the public in May, 2013, took the controversial decision to consolidate the diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome, or High Functioning Autism (HFA), under the umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The particularism of Asperger Syndrome had provided a framework with...
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Supporting Pioneers: Building Better Networks for Adults Aging with Autism
Although traditionally understood as a childhood condition, autism is a lifelong disorder that presents in both children and adults. Many of the children with this disorder who were born during the last century and who are now reaching mid- and later-life did not receive formal diagnoses of autism....
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An Autism Spectrum News Interview with Temple Grandin
Temple Grandin has been at the forefront of autism awareness for the past 50 years. She has seen autism unfold from an unknown to a much better recognized diagnosis, yet she is keenly aware that gaps in understanding and unfulfilled priorities remain. This issue of Autism Spectrum News is...
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The Dilemma of Aging Parents with Adults with Autism Still Living at Home
In a summary of key findings from the 2015 National Autism Indicators Report, we aging parents now have confirmation: “Young adults with autism had the lowest rate of independent living (19%) compared to their peers with other disabilities.”1 The 2015 State of the State in Developmental...
