Autistic adults face unique challenges as they age, including increased risks for chronic health conditions, social isolation, and limited access to tailored services.
Age Characteristics
Source: HANDS IPP Survey Data, 2024. [Unpublished]
A study done by the Gerontological society of America shows:
- Behavioral health-related injuries increase with age.
Life expectancy is significantly lower—up to 20 years less than the general population. - Longitudinal data reveals worsening physical health and behavioral challenges in midlife, especially for those with intellectual disabilities.
- Living/housing: They may have lived with aging parents and will need to consider a different living situation.
- Medical problems may become more pronounced. Additionally, many medical co-morbidities associated with ASD are also common in the elderly population in general, including gastrointestinal and immune issues, sleep problems, seizures, sensory sensitivities, and low bone density.
- Cognitive processes may also decline.
Perspectives on Living with ASD
From 2024 NIMH / ONAC Annual Autism Awareness Month Event
In honor of Autism Awareness Month, the Office of National Autism Coordination (ONAC) is hosting a distinctive event to commemorate the invaluable contributions of individuals on the autism spectrum to society. This special occasion will open with an introduction from Susan Daniels from NIMH and Denise Resnik of First Place Arizona and will highlight the screening of a captivating film that explores the experiences of Blair Bunting and Laura Nadine as artists and individuals on the autism spectrum.
🧰 Resources to Support Aging Autistic Adults
1.National Organizations & Clearinghouses
- Project Spectrum: Offers centralized resources on aging and autism, including links to AARP, ASA, and ARI 3.
- Autism Research Institute (ARI): Focuses on cognition and well-being in aging autistic adults.
- National Council on Aging (NCOA): Provides aging-related support tailored to autistic individuals.
2. Support Services & Peer Networks
- AANE (Asperger/Autism Network): Offers lifelong support including housing, employment, and relationship resources for autistic adults aged 50+
- Spectrum Life Magazine: Features a dedicated series on autism, disability, and aging, covering health, housing, and long-term planning
- Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) and NeuroClastic: Provide advocacy and community-based support.
3.Health & Housing Resources
- Housing Resources for Autism.
- The Arc’s Center for Future Planning: Offers guidance on long-term housing and support.
- Autism Housing Network: Housing Directory.
4. Legal and Financial Planning
- Arc of Indiana
- State Developmental Disabilities Services: Provide home and community-based services (HCBS) tailored to aging autistic adults.
Last Modified September 3, 2025