Ageing and autism: A longitudinal follow-up study of mental health and quality of life in autistic adults

Abstract

Research has shown that over half of autistic people experience difficulties related to poor mental health, such as anxiety and depression. Complex physical health conditions and medication can also negatively affect the well-being of autistic people. In the general population, poor mental health is a common contributor to poorer quality of life and social isolation. Little is known about how these conditions affect the quality of life of autistic adults as they grow older, or whether these factors related improve or worsen over time. The research presented in this paper aimed to find out how mental health and physical health conditions affect the quality of life of autistic adults in older age. We worked with a community group of adults across 4 years, which involved assessments at two time points (T1. T2). Over half of all autistic adults experienced mental and physical health difficulties. We report how these conditions affect the quality of life and well-being of autistic adults across the adult lifespan and continue to present difficulties over time. We offer suggestions for future work to support the mental health and well-being of autistic adults in later life that considers individual differences, such as those between men, women or other gender identities.