Age-Related Physical Health of Older Autistic Adults in Sweden: A Longitudinal, Retrospective, Population-Based Cohort Study
Liu, Larsson, Kuja-Halkola, Lichtenstein, Butwicka and Taylor (2023)
There is a gap in research surrounding Autistic Adults older than 45 years old. This study addresses this gap, examining the association between Autism and physical health conditions and to explore these associations by intellectual disability and sex. The researchers used a longitudinal study with Swedish participants. The study had 4 200 887 older adults’ data included. The findings of the study found that older Autistic adults were substantially more at risk of age-related physical conditions and injuries than their non-Autistic peers. The authors outline the need for collaborative efforts from researchers, health services and policy makers to ensure older Autistic adults have access to support to ensure healthy longevity and quality of life.
