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Published on: April 22, 2015
Diagnosing autism spectrum disorders in elderly people
Maarten E H van Niekerk1, Wouter Groen, Constance Th W M Vissers
1Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre St. Radboud, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
International Psychogeriatrics
|November 30, 2010
Summary
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is often missed in older adults, especially with other psychiatric conditions. Thorough patient and caregiver history is crucial for accurate diagnosis in elderly individuals.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Psychiatry
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are underdiagnosed in the elderly population.
- Old-age psychiatry has historically neglected ASD.
- This paper focuses on the diagnostic process for ASD in geriatric patients.
Observation:
- A systematic literature review and case series of three elderly patients diagnosed with ASD later in life were conducted.
- Limited research exists on late-life ASD, with only three relevant papers found.
- Standard adult diagnostic tools show some utility, but detailed history is paramount.
Findings:
- Thorough patient history, corroborated by long-term caregivers, is the most critical diagnostic element for late-life ASD.
- Screening instruments like the Autism Questionnaire and diagnostic tools such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (Module 4) have relevance.
- Neuropsychological examinations can help profile specific impairments.
Implications:
- ASD can be overlooked in elderly patients with comorbid psychiatric disorders, leading to potential iatrogenic harm.
- Increased awareness among healthcare professionals about the possibility of ASD in older adults is essential.
- Further research into phenotyping and diagnosing ASD in the elderly population is necessary.
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