International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 39(12)

Published: Dec. 1, 2024

The growing recognition of neurodivergence in clinical practice has significant implications for understanding cognitive decline as the number older adults diagnosed Autistic increases. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) been subject research, yet studies that focus on changes associated with ageing this population are still notably sparse [1, 2]. This knowledge gap is particularly concerning when it comes to assessment dementia adults. overlapping nature some neurocognitive markers seen and those autism can make difficult distinguish between two, which turn complicate diagnostic process [3, 4]. With an increasing Autistic—estimated at over 149,000 people aged 60 UK alone—there urgent need address how assessments conducted group ensure equity access diagnosis care. Cognitive autistic requires careful consideration, many characteristics mimic or mask symptoms [5]. For instance, difficulties executive function, memory, social communication, common autism, may be misinterpreted early signs dementia. raises risk both under over-diagnosis, potentially leading inappropriate care intervention. Emerging research suggests show differences they experience report compared neurotypical individuals [6, 7]. Yet there insufficient longitudinal data inform clinicians about what constitutes a "normal" trajectory people. Additionally, traditional screening tools used identify dementia, often developed validated using adults, not sensitive enough account these nuances [5, 8]. example, tools, such Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) Montreal Assessment (MoCA), rely heavily verbal short-term culturally dependent concepts, all present people, independent challenging who differential diagnoses able standardised tests provide accurate assessment. Given limited manifests [9], receive inaccurate diagnoses. considering key managing progression, especially Alzheimer's disease, allows timely intervention, treatment, planning. Misdiagnosis delayed lead reduced quality life, unmet needs, distress individual their caregivers [10]. underscores further understand better improve detection group. To effectively issues, priorities must established. Firstly, follow into old age, assessing functional trajectories, needed. Such could help clarify whether similar different pattern These should aim best age-related from Secondly, development autism-sensitive toolkits importance. Thirdly, existing adapted communicative adaptations collaboration truly reflective experiences needs. Broadly speaking, might include reducing reliance adjusting sensory sensitivities, incorporating alternative methods attention, function. In regard, assess everyday abilities, capacity living, more useful insights than tests. Finally, needed role environmental factors Factors overload, isolation, support needs exacerbate symptoms. Studies exploring lived suspected gap. aforementioned gaps current lack [8], consider adopting holistic approach involve multidisciplinary team includes specialists geriatric use assessments, evaluations daily living skills, picture decline, real-world abilities rather abstract tasks. When used, would logical select areas but unaffected by impacted Also, important family members context individual's time. Through letter, we wish highlight call work area. Addressing through targeted developing appropriate priority neurodivergent possible age. authors have nothing report. declare no conflicts interest. confirm material other sources reproduced permission reproduction.

Language: Английский