Aging Well on the Autism Spectrum: An Examination of the Dominant Model of Successful Aging

There is a gap in our knowledge of aging with autism. The present study examined the applicability of the popular gerontology concept of “aging well” to autistic adults. Using survey data, a model of “aging well” was operationalised and applied to 92 autistic adults and 60 controls. A very small pro...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of autism and developmental disorders 2020-07, Vol.50 (7), p.2326-2335
Main Authors: Hwang, Ye In, Foley, Kitty-Rose, Trollor, Julian N.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adults
Aging
Aging (Individuals)
Analysis
Autism
Autobiographies
Behavioral Science and Psychology
Child and School Psychology
Cognitive Ability
Cognitive functioning
College professors
Demographic aspects
Geriatrics
Gerontology
Gorillas
Health status
Neurosciences
Original Paper
Pediatrics
Physical Health
Physiological aspects
Psychological aspects
Psychology
Public Health
Quality of Life
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Summary:There is a gap in our knowledge of aging with autism. The present study examined the applicability of the popular gerontology concept of “aging well” to autistic adults. Using survey data, a model of “aging well” was operationalised and applied to 92 autistic adults and 60 controls. A very small proportion (3.3%) of autistic adults were found to be aging well. Significantly less autistic adults were “maintaining physical and cognitive functioning” and “actively engaging with life” in comparison to controls. Whilst important differences in health and functioning status were found, the current dominant model of “aging well” is limited for examining autistic individuals. Suggested adjustments include development of a broader, more flexible and strengths -based model.
ISSN:0162-3257
1573-3432
DOI:10.1007/s10803-018-3596-8