Research Uncovers Sex-Based Differences in Cognitive Abilities in Adults on the Autism Spectrum

Strategic Insights -

Investigators from the University of Bristol have conducted a study on the impact of ageing on subjective cognitive decline (SCD) and objective cognition in adults on the autism spectrum. The research revealed that individual variation in autistic traits has not been taken into account when producing normative data for assessing older adults in Memory Clinics for dementia. The study found that relationships between subjective and objective cognitive abilities, autistic traits, and mental health differ based on sex in older adults, with males experiencing higher levels of anxiety and depression associated with SCD, and females experiencing poorer cognitive flexibility with age.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study investigated the impact of ageing on SCD and objective cognition in adults on the autism spectrum, highlighting a gap in current knowledge on the topic.
  • Researchers found that individual variation in autistic traits has not been considered when producing normative data for assessing older adults in Memory Clinics, potentially leading to outcome variability in previous studies.
  • The study revealed sex-based differences in cognitive abilities, with males experiencing higher levels of anxiety and depression associated with SCD, and females experiencing poorer cognitive flexibility with age.
  • Autistic traits were associated with better speed of processing and backwards working memory span in males, suggesting a compensatory effect.
  • The study has important implications for the use, adaptation, and interpretation of tests used in Memory Clinics, highlighting the need for tailored assessments that consider autistic traits and mental health.
  • Jade Eloise Norris, University of Bristol, was the lead researcher on the study, which was funded by the Realising Potential Trust and the BRACE Dementia Research.
  • The study included 127 participants and was published in Research In Autism, 2025.
  • The research has been peer-reviewed and has significant implications for the assessment and treatment of adults on the autism spectrum.

Statistics:

  • The study involved 127 participants aged 50-78 years.
  • The study found that females experienced poorer cognitive flexibility with age, while males experienced higher levels of anxiety and depression associated with SCD.
  • Autistic traits were associated with better speed of processing and backwards working memory span in males.
  • The study suggests that individual variation in autistic traits has not been taken into account when producing normative data for assessing older adults in Memory Clinics.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Researchers from University of Bristol Provide Details of New Studies and Findings in the Area of Autism (Ageing and Subjective Cognitive Decline In Males and Females: Associations With Objective Cognitive Abilities, Mental Health, and Autistic ...). Mental Health Weekly Digest. October 27, 2025; p 1005.
  • Research In Autism. Ageing and Subjective Cognitive Decline In Males and Females: Associations With Objective Cognitive Abilities, Mental Health, and Autistic Traits. 2025;127.