Hidden Signs of Autism in Adults Over 40: A Neglected Diagnosis

Research at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience at King's College London has revealed that an estimated 89.29% of autistic adults between 40 and 59 years old remain undiagnosed. Psychologist Dr Lisa Williams has highlighted seven subtle signs of autism that often go unnoticed in this age group, including a reliance on structure and predictability, specific and obsessive interests, sensory sensitivities, struggles with change, difficulty in understanding social rules, struggles in romantic relationships, and integration difficulties in the workplace.

Key Takeaways:

• 91.45% of men and 79.48% of women between 40 and 59 years old with autism have not received a formal diagnosis (Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience at King's College London).
• Older autistic adults often develop a reliance on routine to feel more comfortable and in control (Dr Lisa Williams).
• Autism can manifest as deep interests in particular subjects or hobbies, which can dominate a person's free time (Dr Lisa Williams).
• Autistic adults may experience heightened sensitivity to sensory sources like light, noise, smells, and textures, which can persist into later years (Dr Lisa Williams).
• Change can be challenging for autistic adults, particularly in areas such as moving house, starting a new job, or adapting to new technology (Dr Lisa Williams).
• Autistic individuals may struggle to understand unwritten social norms, including eye contact, small talk, and body language (Dr Lisa Williams).
• Adults with autism may experience difficulties in forming or maintaining romantic relationships due to challenges with expressing or interpreting affection (Dr Lisa Williams).
• Autistic adults can struggle with workplace integration, including adapting to frequent changes, navigating office politics, and participating in group meetings (Dr Lisa Williams).

Statistics:

• 89.29% of autistic adults between 40 and 59 years old remain underdiagnosed (Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience at King's College London).
• 91.45% of men and 79.48% of women in this age group with autism have not received a formal diagnosis (Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience at King's College London).
• 51.45% of men and 54.72% of women with autism in this age group have not received a formal diagnosis (Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience at King's College London).
• 45.97% of older autistic adults rely on structure and predictability (Dr Lisa Williams).

Sources:

• Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience at King's College London (2018).
• The Autism Service (Dr Lisa Williams).
• National Autistic Society (autism.org.uk).