Improving the Health of Older Autistic People
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Improving the Health of Older Autistic People
IRAS ID
228009
Contact name
Barry Ingham
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 8 months, 2 days
Research summary
Mounting evidence suggests that have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with increased mortality. Mortality rates for people with intellectual disability are also relatively high. Furthermore, around 30% of people on the autism spectrum also have an intellectual disability. Finally, there is a dearth of research about older autistic people (most studies have samples with an average age of around 30 or less). It is therefore essential to identify ways to improve the health outcomes of autistic people.
A parallel line of research has found that there are significant health disparities for those with a diagnosis of ASD compared to the general population. The characteristics associated with ASD (i.e. difficulty with social communication and increased sensory sensitivity) have been advanced as one potential reason. Researchers have called for healthcare services to make adjustments based on the unique needs of autistic people.
The aims of this study are to (1) survey adults with an ASD diagnosis, about their experience of current NHS physical health care services for autistic adults; survey health professionals who contribute to the delivery of physical health care, about current NHS service provision for autistic adults; (2) through focus groups and interviews, consult with older autistic adults, relatives of older autistic adults and health professionals about their experiences of current NHS physical health care services, and the barriers and facilitators to access for older autistic adults; (3) use the information from stages 1 and 2 to develop and pilot a novel facilitation approach to accessing physical healthcare for older autistic people. The findings will provide NHS clinicians and policymakers with evidence based information on best ways to provide physical health care to autistic adults. This information will therefore also benefit people with ASD and their relatives.
REC name
Wales REC 5
REC reference
18/WA/0141
Date of REC Opinion
24 Apr 2018
REC opinion
Unfavourable Opinion