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Abstract: Many adults above 40 with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have not been diagnosed or were diagnosed late into adulthood. Furthermore, those diagnosed may have limited community resources and assistance in adult life. The objective of this systematic review is to identify the curren t discourse on this topic and to identify voids in research and resources. An overview of ASD is presented, along with information on co-occurring conditions, services provided to adults with ASD, and considerations for employ ment, in dependen t living, and social integration. A discussion of the challenges and solutions to the barriers faced by adults with ASD is provided. In addition, the paper provides a list of recommendations to assist vocational rehabilitation practitioners in better serving this population.
The subject of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has attracted significant attention in the last decade. As a result, society, in general, has a better understanding of this neurological disorder. However, ASD is examined mainly through the lens of school-aged children and young adults, with less focus on ASD in adulthood. In addition, many adults above 40 with ASD have never been diagnosed or are diagnosed later in life. According to the National Autistic Society (2017), the first generation of persons diagnosed with ASD in childhood are now reaching middle age, and mature adults are being diagnosed for the first time. This is concerning as the prevalence of ASD in adults is approximately one percent nationally and globally, the same as in children (Murphy et al., 2016). In addition to increased awareness, changes in the diagnostic classification of ASD over the past 35 years are another reason for an increase in diagnoses later in life.
Regardless of the diagnosis's timing, individuals with ASD are often confronted with limited community resources when transitioning to adulthood, particularly around issues related to vocation, independent living, and social environment. These scarce resources become more vital as they transition into senior citizens and begin to navigate the complexities of healthcare and retirement. The unmet needs of older adults, coupled with the limited availability of resources and services, can seriously disadvantage people with ASD. Thus, there is an urgent need to improve the mental health of people with ASD by making appropriate employment, independent living, and social inclusion...