Nine in ten autistic people over 40 are undiagnosed, research suggests
The health impact of undiagnosed autism in older people revealed
- A study suggests that almost 90 per cent of autistic adults over the age of 40 in the UK are living without a diagnosis.
- Research from King's College London estimates that 89.29 per cent of autistic people aged 40-59 and 96.51 per cent of those 60 and over are undiagnosed.
- Experts warn that this high rate of underdiagnosis could make older autistic individuals more susceptible to age-related problems, social isolation, and poorer health.
- Undiagnosed autistic adults may also experience higher rates of conditions such as Parkinson's disease, arthritis, heart disease, and self-harm, along with greater barriers to healthcare.
- The findings highlight the critical need for improved recognition, tailored support, and integrated healthcare services to address the needs of ageing autistic people.