Autism is under-diagnosed in the elderly and the National Autistic Society (NAS) has found that less than half (41%) of English local authorities have a diagnostic pathway in place for adults, despite it being an obligation following the 2009 Autism Act.
Question marks remain over what form support will actually take in the long-term for those with autism, as there is almost no research into how the condition develops in older age.
The NAS has also heard anecdotal evidence that clinicians working in age-related specialisms often have a poor understanding of the disability and don't think of it as a condition affecting older people. Professionals also currently have little idea as to how health issues such as dementia might play out in adults with autism.
The Getting on? Growing older with autism report calls on central and local government to use this year's autism strategy review to ensure people with autism who are entering older age get the support they need. The charity also argues for improved access to a diagnosis and for funding to be made available for further research into autism and ageing.
Commenting, Mark Lever, Chief Executive of the National Autistic Society, said: “Huge strides have been taken in changing attitudes towards autism and increasing understanding of the lifelong, disabling condition that touches the lives of over 2.7million people across the UK.
“But there is still a tendency to think of autism as a condition that just affects children, when there are older people with autism in all our communities who need our support and care.
“Too many older adults with autism are missing out on diagnosis entirely and too many are still waiting for their needs to be assessed. And all too often, it's unclear what support will be available for them as they get older. This must change.
“This year, the Government has a chance to finally deliver these adults the support they need by making sure that the Adult Autism Strategy is implemented. It's essential decision-makers at all levels don't miss this vital opportunity to make a difference to thousands of lives.”
The full report, Getting on? Growing older with autism, can be found here.
Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how a person communicates with, and relates to, other people. It also affects how they make sense of the world around them. It is a spectrum condition, which means that, while all people with autism share certain difficulties, their condition will affect them in different ways. Some people with autism are able to live relatively independent lives but others may have accompanying learning disabilities and need a lifetime of specialist support. People with autism may also experience over- or under-sensitivity to sounds, touch, tastes, smells, light or colours.
Asperger syndrome is a form of autism. People with Asperger syndrome are often of average or above average intelligence. They have fewer problems with speech but may still have difficulties with understanding and processing language.
The National Autistic Society is the UK's leading charity for people with autism and their families. Founded in 1962, it continues to spearhead national and international initiatives and provide a strong voice for all people with autism. The NAS provides a wide range of services to help people with autism and Asperger syndrome live their lives with as much independence as possible.
The NAS relies on the support of its members and donors to continue its vital work for people with autism. To become a member, make a donation or to find out more about the work of the NAS, visit the NAS website www.autism.org.uk