Researchers have recently discovered that autistic people turn into adults and age even more! So there will be a lot here about this new find.
The Big Picture: Studies are showing autistic adults face a greater chance of getting Parkinson’s Disease and heart disease. Some show an elevated risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. And some also show their brains age differently, but more research is needed on that.
Study Type: Comprehensive review / Medical record review
Participant Profile: The participants included 250,000 autistic people, people with intellectual disabilities, and those without. Health records from nearly 5,000 autistic individuals were also studied.
Key Findings:
- [Health Risks] 35% of autistic adults aged over 64 had a diagnosis of dementia. Only 10% of the “general population” gets diagnosed with dementia.
- [Health Risks] There is a statistically higher risk for Parkinson’s and heart disease.
- [Mixed Results] Unlike the general population, autistic aging is “unpredictable.” Some experience faster memory decline, while others show no signs of accelerated aging.
- [Support] Autistic people will benefit from “extra support” as they age.
Access Status: Free
Direct Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-026-00471-6
Adult Autism Insights 