Unrecognized Autism in Adults: 7 Subtle Signs Among Undiagnosed Britons Over 40

Strategic Insights -

Autistic adults over 40 in the UK are often without a formal diagnosis, with recent research suggesting that an estimated 91.45% of men and 79.48% of women in this age group remain undiagnosed. A reanalysis of UK healthcare data from 2018 revealed these staggering numbers. To shed light on the signs that may be overlooked in adult autism, Dr. Lisa Williams, a clinical psychologist and founder of The Autism Service, has highlighted seven subtle indicators that often go unnoticed.

Key Takeaways:

  • Reliance on structure and predictability is a common trait among older autistic adults, who may stick to daily habits and feel unsettled by changes in plans.
  • Having specific and obsessive interests, which dominate free time and conversations, can be a sign of autism.
  • Struggles with change, such as adapting to new technology or starting a new job, can be a hallmark of autism.
  • Difficulty in understanding social rules, including unwritten social norms like eye contact and subtle humor, is more challenging for older adults with autism.
  • Adults with autism may experience challenges in forming or maintaining romantic relationships, including difficulty expressing or interpreting affection.
  • Integration difficulties in the workplace, such as adapting to frequent changes or navigating office politics, are common among autistic adults.
  • Supportive managers who provide reasonable adjustments, like clear communication or flexibility in work routines, can help autistic adults succeed in their roles.

Statistics:

  • 91.45% of men and 79.48% of women aged 40-59 in the UK are estimated to have not received a formal autism diagnosis (IoPPN, King's College London).
  • 7 subtle signs of autism highlighted by Dr. Lisa Williams for adult diagnosis include reliance on structure, obsessive interests, struggles with change, social rules, intimate relationships, workplace integration, and lack of social adaptation.

Sources:

  • IoPPN (Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience), King's College London (research on UK healthcare data from 2018)
  • Dr. Lisa Williams, Clinical Psychologist, The Autism Service (statements on subtle signs of adult autism)