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Autism In The Elderly Still Goes Unnoticed In Brazil, Hindering Diagnosis, Treatment, And Public Policies.
The Autism Spectrum Disorder in the elderly affects around 306.8 thousand people aged 60 and over in Brazil, according to data from the 2022 Demographic Census analyzed by researchers from the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná (PUCPR).
The survey shows that 0.86% of the Brazilian elderly population self-declares to be within the spectrum, revealing a still little visible reality, marked by late autism diagnosis, difficulties in accessing healthcare, and absence of specific public policies.
The study was conducted by the Graduate Program in Health Sciences (PPGCS) and emphasizes the urgency of broadening the focus on autism in old age, a condition that accompanies the individual throughout life.
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Prevalence Of ASD In Brazil Among The Elderly Draws Attention
The prevalence of ASD in Brazil among the elderly reveals important differences by gender. Among men over 60, the rate reaches 0.94%, while among women it is 0.81%.
Although the numbers may seem modest at first glance, experts warn that they may be underestimated, precisely due to the difficulty of identifying Autism Spectrum Disorder in older age groups.
Moreover, when considered alongside global data, the numbers gain even more relevance.
Estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicate that around 70 million people worldwide live with some degree of ASD,
a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent difficulties in communication and social interaction.
Autism In The Elderly Is Still Little Recognized
Although many people associate ASD with childhood, experts emphasize that the condition accompanies the individual throughout life.
However, autism in the elderly remains largely invisible within the healthcare system.
In older adults, healthcare professionals still recognize the disorder in a limited way, both in diagnosis and in access to appropriate therapies and follow-up care.
“From the perspective of public health policies, this data reinforces the importance of developing strategies for the identification and support of older adults with ASD.
The prevalence has grown in recent years, but national and international scientific literature is still scarce regarding what is known about ASD in the context of aging,” said the researcher from PUCPR’s PPGCS, Uiara Raiana Vargas de Castro Oliveira Ribeiro.
Late Diagnosis Of Autism Is One Of The Main Obstacles
The late diagnosis of autism in the elderly represents one of the biggest challenges faced by this population.
According to the researcher, healthcare professionals face difficulty in identifying ASD in older individuals
because manifestations such as social isolation, behavioral rigidity, and restricted interests are often confused with signs of anxiety, depression, or even dementia.
Additionally, changes in diagnostic criteria over the decades and the lack of trained professionals make correct detection even more challenging.
The elderly often receive the diagnosis with relief, as they understand that it explains the interpersonal and sensory difficulties they have experienced throughout life, promoting greater self-understanding and acceptance,” explained the specialist.
Health Risks And Comorbidities Associated With ASD In The Elderly
Another point of concern involves health conditions associated with ASD in the elderly.
People aging within the spectrum tend to exhibit reduced life expectancy and higher prevalence of psychiatric comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression.
There is also a higher risk of cognitive decline and clinical diseases, including cardiovascular problems and metabolic dysfunctions.
According to the researcher, communication difficulties, sensory overload, and behavioral rigidity can further aggravate this population’s access to healthcare services.
Thus, the lack of awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder in old age ends up widening inequalities in care and medical follow-up.
Knowledge Is The Basis For Effective Public Policies
For specialists, mapping the prevalence of ASD in Brazil among the elderly is a fundamental step towards formulating more inclusive public policies.
“Understanding the prevalence of ASD in the elderly in Brazil is the first step to comprehend their needs and thus support public policies directed at this population,” emphasized Uiara Ribeiro.
Meanwhile, the advancement of research on autism in old age emerges as an essential tool to ensure greater dignity,
appropriate diagnosis, and access to healthcare for a population that, for decades, has remained invisible.
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