TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is often recognized in children. However, an increasing number of people experience autism in adulthood without an official diagnosis. Over the years, the signs they exhibit are often misconstrued as peculiar personalities or social awkwardness.
According to recent research, the majority of individuals with autism over the age of 40 in the UK live without an official diagnosis. Researchers at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN) at King's College London reanalyzed data from the 2018 UK health services research and estimated that among adults with autism aged 40 to 59, 91.45 percent of men and 79.48 percent of women have not received an official diagnosis.
A study published in the Annual Review of Developmental Psychology also found that this number increases even in older age groups. It was found that 96.29 percent of men and 97.19 percent of women with autism over 60 years old are suspected to be undiagnosed, with an overall rate of 96.51 percent.
Conversely, the estimated rate of undiagnosed autism for those aged 20 to 39 is 52.54 percent, and 23.34 percent for those under 19 years old.
Tim Nicholls, assistant director of policy, research, and strategy at the National Autistic Society, said this research shows that there is a number of adults with autism who are undiagnosed, and living without a diagnosis has a significant impact on many aspects of their lives. "This research clearly shows what we already know and hear every day," he said, as cited from The Independent.
According to Nicholls, recognizing or identifying the symptoms of autism can be the first step in understanding the needs of those experiencing it. "And a diagnosis can change lives and, in some cases, save lives," he said.
Lisa Williams, the founder of The Autism Service, shared seven signs of autism that are often unnoticed in adults over 40. Here they are:
1. Strong dependence on routines and predictability
Williams stated that older adults with undiagnosed autism often get stuck in fixed routines, making them feel more comfortable and in control. Changes and unexpected disruptions in these routines can trigger stress, anxiety, and unease.
2. Having specific and obsessive interests
Similar to a characteristic of someone with autism, they have a deep interest in specific topics or hobbies. In older adults with autism, it may seem like a lifelong passion. "But if it dominates leisure time and tends to be talked about obsessively, it could be a sign that the individual is on the autism spectrum," Williams said.
3. Sensory sensitivities
Sensitivities to major sensory sources such as sound, light, touch, smell, or texture can persist into old age for adults with autism. Williams gave an example of discomfort felt in busy or noisy environments, as well as specific fabric textures.
4. Difficulty with changes
Williams emphasized that changes can be very challenging for the elderly who may have undiagnosed autism. For example, moving homes, starting a new job, or adapting to new technology can evoke natural anxiety about the lack of predictability and familiarity.
5. Difficulty understanding social norms
Elderly individuals with autism will have more difficulty understanding unwritten social norms, such as eye contact, small talk, respecting personal space, body language, and understanding subtle humor. This is because they often think differently than neurotypical individuals and may interpret something much more literally. Therefore, they have difficulty understanding subtle social cues, requiring extra time to process interactions, even with years of life experience.
6. Difficulty in romantic relationships
Adults with autism may experience challenges in forming or maintaining romantic relationships. For example, difficulty expressing or interpreting affection, discomfort with physical intimacy, or a preference for independence over living together. According to Williams, they often thrive in relationships with partners who understand their needs, communicate openly, and are willing to adapt to how they interact.
7. Difficulty integrating in the workplace
Adults with autism may struggle with aspects of workplace integration, such as adapting to frequent changes, dealing with office politics, or participating in group meetings that feel burdensome.
MELIKA AZAYA
Editor’s Choice: Dubai Named First Certified Autism Destination in Eastern Region
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
