5 recherche sur le mot-clé 'old age'

Distinguishing midlife and old age: A recommendation for autism researchers / Gavin R. STEWART in Autism, 30-3 (March 2026)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 30-3 (March 2026) . - p.834-836 Titre : Distinguishing midlife and old age: A recommendation for autism researchers Type de document : texte imprimé Auteurs : Gavin R. STEWART, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.834-836 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : autism  midlife  old age Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Research on ageing in autism has sharply increased following a number of influential publications that highlighted the lack of knowledge in this area. However, much of the research on autism ageing has inadvertently treated all people aged over 50 as a homogeneous ‘older adult’ group, overlooking important distinctions between midlife (40–64 years) and old age (65+ years). Midlife is marked by complex role management, career pressures, health changes and identity development, while old age often involves retirement, shifts in priorities, physical and cognitive changes, and planning for less independent living. Recognising midlife and old age as distinct life phases is essential to accurately characterise the lived experiences and needs of autistic adults across the latter part of the lifespan. This letter makes conceptual and methodological suggestions that autism researchers should align with established ageing frameworks by labelling samples accurately, using appropriate keywords and, where possible, stratifying analyses by age subgroup. Doing so will enhance research accuracy, improve indexing and increase clinical relevance. This shift is vital for advancing autism ageing research and ensuring findings reflect the diverse experiences of autistic adults throughout later life.Lay Abstract Research on autism and ageing has increased a lot in recent years. However, many studies group everyone over the age of 50 as part of the same ‘older adult’ group. This overlooks the fact that people in midlife (ages 40–64) and those in old age (65 and older) often face very different experiences, challenges and opportunities. Recognising that midlife and old age are separate stages of life is important for understanding what autistic adults go through as they age. This letter encourages autism researchers to be more specific when describing age groups in their studies. By doing this, research on autism and ageing will be more accurate, easier to find and more useful for researchers, healthcare professionals and autistic people alike. En ligne : https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/13623613251396316 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=582 [article] Distinguishing midlife and old age: A recommendation for autism researchers [texte imprimé] / Gavin R. STEWART, Auteur . - p.834-836. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 30-3 (March 2026) . - p.834-836 Mots-clés : autism  midlife  old age Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Research on ageing in autism has sharply increased following a number of influential publications that highlighted the lack of knowledge in this area. However, much of the research on autism ageing has inadvertently treated all people aged over 50 as a homogeneous ‘older adult’ group, overlooking important distinctions between midlife (40–64 years) and old age (65+ years). Midlife is marked by complex role management, career pressures, health changes and identity development, while old age often involves retirement, shifts in priorities, physical and cognitive changes, and planning for less independent living. Recognising midlife and old age as distinct life phases is essential to accurately characterise the lived experiences and needs of autistic adults across the latter part of the lifespan. This letter makes conceptual and methodological suggestions that autism researchers should align with established ageing frameworks by labelling samples accurately, using appropriate keywords and, where possible, stratifying analyses by age subgroup. Doing so will enhance research accuracy, improve indexing and increase clinical relevance. This shift is vital for advancing autism ageing research and ensuring findings reflect the diverse experiences of autistic adults throughout later life.Lay Abstract Research on autism and ageing has increased a lot in recent years. However, many studies group everyone over the age of 50 as part of the same ‘older adult’ group. This overlooks the fact that people in midlife (ages 40–64) and those in old age (65 and older) often face very different experiences, challenges and opportunities. Recognising that midlife and old age are separate stages of life is important for understanding what autistic adults go through as they age. This letter encourages autism researchers to be more specific when describing age groups in their studies. By doing this, research on autism and ageing will be more accurate, easier to find and more useful for researchers, healthcare professionals and autistic people alike. En ligne : https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/13623613251396316 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=582

Longitudinal Association Between Social Support and Quality of Life Among Middle-Aged and Older Autistic Adults / Wei SONG in Autism, 30-6 (June 2026)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 30-6 (June 2026) . - p.1548-1561 Titre : Longitudinal Association Between Social Support and Quality of Life Among Middle-Aged and Older Autistic Adults Type de document : texte imprimé Auteurs : Wei SONG, Auteur ; Goldie A. MCQUAID, Auteur ; Rebecca A. CHARLTON, Auteur ; Gregory L. WALLACE, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.1548-1561 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : autism  social support  quality of life  adult  midlife  old age  longitudinal Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Social support is positively associated with quality of life (QoL) in autistic people, yet almost all evidence is cross-sectional and focused on younger adults. We examined 2-year longitudinal survey data from 209 autistic adults aged ⩾40 years living in the United States, all recruited via the Research Match service of Simons Powering Autism Research for Knowledge. Participants self-reported their general QoL, autism-specific QoL, and social support (subjective support, instrumental support, and social interaction). Cross-lagged panel models tested bidirectional associations. Mean scores increased from Time 1 to Time 2 for the general QoL and autism-specific QoL, while social support was mostly stable. Higher baseline general QoL predicted greater subjective support later, whereas baseline subjective support did not predict later general QoL. A reciprocal relationship emerged between autism-specific QoL and subjective support. Unexpectedly, baseline instrumental support predicted lower subsequent general QoL. Among autistic adults in mid-to-later life, QoL appears to drive subsequent social support more strongly than support drives QoL, with the clearest reciprocity observed for autism-specific QoL and subjective support. Future multiwave studies with more diverse samples are needed to chart long-term trajectories and determine how tailored support can optimize aging outcomes in individuals with autism.Lay Abstract We know little about how autistic people’s perceived social support and quality of life (QoL) influence each other as they age. We surveyed 209 40+-year-old autistic adults living in the United States at two timepoints 2 years apart. They answered questions about their general QoL, QoL specific to their autistic experiences, and three types of social support (subjective support, instrumental support, and social interaction). The first survey was in late 2019/early 2020, and the second was 2 years later – late 2021/early 2022. We found that, on average, middle-aged and older autistic adults reported better QoL after 2 years, while the amount of practical help and the number of social interactions did not change. People who started out with better QoL reported more subjective support later. Reporting better autism-specific QoL at the beginning led to more emotional and practical support later and vice versa – feeling well-supported emotionally initially led to better autism-specific QoL later. Surprisingly, getting more initial practical support was linked to lower overall QoL 2 years later. Our results suggest that helping autistic adults feel comfortable with their identity, manage sensory needs, and navigate services may not only improve their QoL but also strengthen the emotional and practical support they receive from others. Practical help is still important, but it should match the person’s goals and preferences, so that it boosts, rather than harms, life satisfaction. Programs that check in regularly about changing needs, especially around significant life events like retirement or health changes, could make a real difference as autistic adults grow older. En ligne : https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/13623613261446878 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=586 [article] Longitudinal Association Between Social Support and Quality of Life Among Middle-Aged and Older Autistic Adults [texte imprimé] / Wei SONG, Auteur ; Goldie A. MCQUAID, Auteur ; Rebecca A. CHARLTON, Auteur ; Gregory L. WALLACE, Auteur . - p.1548-1561. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 30-6 (June 2026) . - p.1548-1561 Mots-clés : autism  social support  quality of life  adult  midlife  old age  longitudinal Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Social support is positively associated with quality of life (QoL) in autistic people, yet almost all evidence is cross-sectional and focused on younger adults. We examined 2-year longitudinal survey data from 209 autistic adults aged ⩾40 years living in the United States, all recruited via the Research Match service of Simons Powering Autism Research for Knowledge. Participants self-reported their general QoL, autism-specific QoL, and social support (subjective support, instrumental support, and social interaction). Cross-lagged panel models tested bidirectional associations. Mean scores increased from Time 1 to Time 2 for the general QoL and autism-specific QoL, while social support was mostly stable. Higher baseline general QoL predicted greater subjective support later, whereas baseline subjective support did not predict later general QoL. A reciprocal relationship emerged between autism-specific QoL and subjective support. Unexpectedly, baseline instrumental support predicted lower subsequent general QoL. Among autistic adults in mid-to-later life, QoL appears to drive subsequent social support more strongly than support drives QoL, with the clearest reciprocity observed for autism-specific QoL and subjective support. Future multiwave studies with more diverse samples are needed to chart long-term trajectories and determine how tailored support can optimize aging outcomes in individuals with autism.Lay Abstract We know little about how autistic people’s perceived social support and quality of life (QoL) influence each other as they age. We surveyed 209 40+-year-old autistic adults living in the United States at two timepoints 2 years apart. They answered questions about their general QoL, QoL specific to their autistic experiences, and three types of social support (subjective support, instrumental support, and social interaction). The first survey was in late 2019/early 2020, and the second was 2 years later – late 2021/early 2022. We found that, on average, middle-aged and older autistic adults reported better QoL after 2 years, while the amount of practical help and the number of social interactions did not change. People who started out with better QoL reported more subjective support later. Reporting better autism-specific QoL at the beginning led to more emotional and practical support later and vice versa – feeling well-supported emotionally initially led to better autism-specific QoL later. Surprisingly, getting more initial practical support was linked to lower overall QoL 2 years later. Our results suggest that helping autistic adults feel comfortable with their identity, manage sensory needs, and navigate services may not only improve their QoL but also strengthen the emotional and practical support they receive from others. Practical help is still important, but it should match the person’s goals and preferences, so that it boosts, rather than harms, life satisfaction. Programs that check in regularly about changing needs, especially around significant life events like retirement or health changes, could make a real difference as autistic adults grow older. En ligne : https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/13623613261446878 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=586

Executive Functioning in 60+ Autistic Males: The Discrepancy Between Experienced Challenges and Cognitive Performance / Hilde M. GEURTS in Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 50-4 (April 2020)  

Public ISBD [article]  inJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders > 50-4 (April 2020) . - p.1380-1390 Titre : Executive Functioning in 60+ Autistic Males: The Discrepancy Between Experienced Challenges and Cognitive Performance Type de document : texte imprimé Auteurs : Hilde M. GEURTS, Auteur ; S.E. POL, Auteur ; J. LOBBESTAEL, Auteur ; Claudia J.P. SIMONS, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.1380-1390 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : Autism  Cognition  Executive function  Old age Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : As executive functioning (EF) is especially sensitive to age-related cognitive decline, EF was evaluated by using a multi-method assessment. Fifty males (60-85 years) with a late adulthood autism spectrum condition (ASC) diagnosis and 51 non-ASC males (60-83 years) were compared on cognitive tests across EF domains (cognitive flexibility, planning, processing speed, and working memory) and a self- and proxy report of the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Adult Version. While no objective performance differences emerged, autistic males and their proxies did report more EF challenges than non-ASC males on the subjective measure. In order to know how to support the older autistic men who received their ASC diagnosis in late adulthood with their daily life EF challenges, it is important to understand what underlies these subjective EF problems. En ligne : http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10803-020-04368-9 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=421 [article] Executive Functioning in 60+ Autistic Males: The Discrepancy Between Experienced Challenges and Cognitive Performance [texte imprimé] / Hilde M. GEURTS, Auteur ; S.E. POL, Auteur ; J. LOBBESTAEL, Auteur ; Claudia J.P. SIMONS, Auteur . - p.1380-1390. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders > 50-4 (April 2020) . - p.1380-1390 Mots-clés : Autism  Cognition  Executive function  Old age Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : As executive functioning (EF) is especially sensitive to age-related cognitive decline, EF was evaluated by using a multi-method assessment. Fifty males (60-85 years) with a late adulthood autism spectrum condition (ASC) diagnosis and 51 non-ASC males (60-83 years) were compared on cognitive tests across EF domains (cognitive flexibility, planning, processing speed, and working memory) and a self- and proxy report of the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Adult Version. While no objective performance differences emerged, autistic males and their proxies did report more EF challenges than non-ASC males on the subjective measure. In order to know how to support the older autistic men who received their ASC diagnosis in late adulthood with their daily life EF challenges, it is important to understand what underlies these subjective EF problems. En ligne : http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10803-020-04368-9 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=421

How do autistic adults experience ageing? A qualitative interview study / Rebecca AITKEN in Autism, 30-4 (April 2026)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 30-4 (April 2026) . - p.1047-1061 Titre : How do autistic adults experience ageing? A qualitative interview study Type de document : texte imprimé Auteurs : Rebecca AITKEN, Auteur ; Katherine BERRY, Auteur ; Emma GOWEN, Auteur ; Laura J.E. BROWN, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.1047-1061 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : ageing well  autism  midlife  old age  qualitative research  support needs Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : The aim of this study was to understand middle-aged and older autistic adults’ views and experiences of ageing and their associated health and social care needs. Seventeen autistic adults (10 women and seven men) aged 46–72 years were recruited via convenience and snowball sampling strategies and interviewed via Zoom or telephone call about what it means to age well; their age-related needs; and how services could better support them to age well. Semi-structured interview transcripts were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Five themes were identified. These reflected: (1) possibilities and fears around ageing; (2) adaptive strategies when facing age-related changes; (3) understanding and acceptance of autism for a more positive experience of ageing; (4) social relationships as important for supporting ageing and (5) formal support for ageing needing to be autism-informed. The findings highlight a need for increasing societal knowledge about ageing with autism, and for improved services to support this. We provide a set of recommendations for professionals working with autistic adults. These include involving autistic people in the design of health and social care services; ensuring that services are trauma-informed and strength-focused; and providing peer support to help autistic people navigate and access services.Lay abstract What was the purpose of this study?The purpose of this study was to understand middle-aged and older autistic adults’ views and experiences of ageing well, their age-related needs, and how services could better support them to age well.Why is this an important issue?Very little research explains how autistic people experience ageing. It is important to know more about this to ensure that health and social services know how to best support ageing autistic people to live happier and healthier lives.What did the researchers do?We interviewed 17 middle-to-older autistic adults (10 females, 46–72 years) via Zoom or telephone. We typed up participant’s responses and looked for common themes within the data.What were the results of the study?Participants felt that links between autism and ageing were poorly understood, and that autistic adults may have a higher risk of certain age-related conditions such as dementia. Participants also felt their autistic characteristics and experiences were changing with age.This study also revealed that current ageing support is generally felt to be incompatible with autistic adults’ characteristics. This incompatibility was linked to professionals not understanding autistic characteristics, and services being difficult to access. A hub-based model was proposed involving flexible and responsive peer and specialist support options.How will these findings help autistic adults now or in the future?This study raises the profile of the needs of ageing autistic adults. We have created a set of recommendations that will contribute to professionals’ understanding of autistic adults’ views on ageing well, their age-related support needs, and how to adapt service provision accordingly. En ligne : https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/13623613261422937 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=584 [article] How do autistic adults experience ageing? A qualitative interview study [texte imprimé] / Rebecca AITKEN, Auteur ; Katherine BERRY, Auteur ; Emma GOWEN, Auteur ; Laura J.E. BROWN, Auteur . - p.1047-1061. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 30-4 (April 2026) . - p.1047-1061 Mots-clés : ageing well  autism  midlife  old age  qualitative research  support needs Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : The aim of this study was to understand middle-aged and older autistic adults’ views and experiences of ageing and their associated health and social care needs. Seventeen autistic adults (10 women and seven men) aged 46–72 years were recruited via convenience and snowball sampling strategies and interviewed via Zoom or telephone call about what it means to age well; their age-related needs; and how services could better support them to age well. Semi-structured interview transcripts were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Five themes were identified. These reflected: (1) possibilities and fears around ageing; (2) adaptive strategies when facing age-related changes; (3) understanding and acceptance of autism for a more positive experience of ageing; (4) social relationships as important for supporting ageing and (5) formal support for ageing needing to be autism-informed. The findings highlight a need for increasing societal knowledge about ageing with autism, and for improved services to support this. We provide a set of recommendations for professionals working with autistic adults. These include involving autistic people in the design of health and social care services; ensuring that services are trauma-informed and strength-focused; and providing peer support to help autistic people navigate and access services.Lay abstract What was the purpose of this study?The purpose of this study was to understand middle-aged and older autistic adults’ views and experiences of ageing well, their age-related needs, and how services could better support them to age well.Why is this an important issue?Very little research explains how autistic people experience ageing. It is important to know more about this to ensure that health and social services know how to best support ageing autistic people to live happier and healthier lives.What did the researchers do?We interviewed 17 middle-to-older autistic adults (10 females, 46–72 years) via Zoom or telephone. We typed up participant’s responses and looked for common themes within the data.What were the results of the study?Participants felt that links between autism and ageing were poorly understood, and that autistic adults may have a higher risk of certain age-related conditions such as dementia. Participants also felt their autistic characteristics and experiences were changing with age.This study also revealed that current ageing support is generally felt to be incompatible with autistic adults’ characteristics. This incompatibility was linked to professionals not understanding autistic characteristics, and services being difficult to access. A hub-based model was proposed involving flexible and responsive peer and specialist support options.How will these findings help autistic adults now or in the future?This study raises the profile of the needs of ageing autistic adults. We have created a set of recommendations that will contribute to professionals’ understanding of autistic adults’ views on ageing well, their age-related support needs, and how to adapt service provision accordingly. En ligne : https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/13623613261422937 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=584

‘A New Pace of Life’: A Mixed-Methods Exploration of Retirement Plans, Preparations and Experiences in Middle-Aged and Older Autistic and Non-Autistic Adults / Zuzanna KOWALCZYK in Autism, 30-5 (May 2026)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 30-5 (May 2026) . - p.1330-1343 Titre : ‘A New Pace of Life’: A Mixed-Methods Exploration of Retirement Plans, Preparations and Experiences in Middle-Aged and Older Autistic and Non-Autistic Adults Type de document : texte imprimé Auteurs : Zuzanna KOWALCZYK, Auteur ; Ahna Huwaida Ahmad FADZIL, Auteur ; Isabel WARD, Auteur ; Francesca HAPPE, Auteur ; Gavin R. STEWART, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.1330-1343 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : autism  financial planning  midlife  old age  pension  retirement Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Retirement is a major life change affecting routines, finances and wellbeing. Autistic adults may face extra challenges during this transition due to employment barriers, limited support and planning difficulties. However, little is known about their retirement experiences compared to non-autistic adults. This mixed-methods study surveyed 517 adults from the United Kingdom (autistic n = 395), aged 40–90 years, about their retirement status, plans, experiences, employment history, income and financial security. Actual or expected retirement ages were similar across groups, but autistic adults were less likely to have made plans and more likely to have plans disrupted by financial, health or personal factors. They also reported lower rates of full-time work, reduced pensions and lower pre-retirement income. Many highlighted a lack of information about pensions and lifestyle planning. Concerns included isolation, loss of routine and financial worries, but some looked forward to more autonomy and time for self-care, leisure activities and interests. While there were many similarities between the autistic and non-autistic groups, our study found that autistic adults may reach retirement differently due to unique work histories, health needs and planning barriers. Tailored, accessible support is needed to help autistic adults plan for financial stability and meaningful post-retirement lives.Lay abstract Retirement is a major life change, but very little is known about how autistic adults experience this transition. This study explored retirement experiences/expectations of both autistic and non-autistic adults, finding that retirement happened or was expected to happen at similar ages across groups. However, autistic adults were less likely to plan for retirement and often had more difficulties with jobs, money, pensions and their health. Many felt unsure how to prepare for retirement and wanted clearer information. While some had concerns about isolation and changes to routine, others looked forward to more freedom and time for hobbies. The findings highlight the need for better support to help autistic people plan for retirement. En ligne : https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/13623613261431925 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=585 [article] â€˜A New Pace of Life’: A Mixed-Methods Exploration of Retirement Plans, Preparations and Experiences in Middle-Aged and Older Autistic and Non-Autistic Adults [texte imprimé] / Zuzanna KOWALCZYK, Auteur ; Ahna Huwaida Ahmad FADZIL, Auteur ; Isabel WARD, Auteur ; Francesca HAPPE, Auteur ; Gavin R. STEWART, Auteur . - p.1330-1343. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 30-5 (May 2026) . - p.1330-1343 Mots-clés : autism  financial planning  midlife  old age  pension  retirement Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Retirement is a major life change affecting routines, finances and wellbeing. Autistic adults may face extra challenges during this transition due to employment barriers, limited support and planning difficulties. However, little is known about their retirement experiences compared to non-autistic adults. This mixed-methods study surveyed 517 adults from the United Kingdom (autistic n = 395), aged 40–90 years, about their retirement status, plans, experiences, employment history, income and financial security. Actual or expected retirement ages were similar across groups, but autistic adults were less likely to have made plans and more likely to have plans disrupted by financial, health or personal factors. They also reported lower rates of full-time work, reduced pensions and lower pre-retirement income. Many highlighted a lack of information about pensions and lifestyle planning. Concerns included isolation, loss of routine and financial worries, but some looked forward to more autonomy and time for self-care, leisure activities and interests. While there were many similarities between the autistic and non-autistic groups, our study found that autistic adults may reach retirement differently due to unique work histories, health needs and planning barriers. Tailored, accessible support is needed to help autistic adults plan for financial stability and meaningful post-retirement lives.Lay abstract Retirement is a major life change, but very little is known about how autistic adults experience this transition. This study explored retirement experiences/expectations of both autistic and non-autistic adults, finding that retirement happened or was expected to happen at similar ages across groups. However, autistic adults were less likely to plan for retirement and often had more difficulties with jobs, money, pensions and their health. Many felt unsure how to prepare for retirement and wanted clearer information. While some had concerns about isolation and changes to routine, others looked forward to more freedom and time for hobbies. The findings highlight the need for better support to help autistic people plan for retirement. En ligne : https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/13623613261431925 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=585